The Denver Broncos defense will be without one of their top defensive players for some time this season. What options does the team have for the position?
Denver Broncos CB K’Waun Williams set to undergo ankle surgery
K’Waun Williams will miss some time for the Denver Broncos this season as he’s set to undergo ankle surgery, as first reported by 9News Mike Klis.
Williams has been battling an ankle injury that has caused him discomfort for several weeks. Initially, Williams received a second opinion from a specialist who recommended rest and recovery with ongoing treatment from team medical staff.
With Williams set to undergo surgery, it’s evident the discomfort wasn’t going away ahead of the team’s regular-season opener on September 10.
Most NFL teams will look at alternative player recovery options before opting for surgery.
Depending on what the surgeon discovers during the operation, the best-case scenario is Williams lands on short-term IR and returns this season. The worst-case scenario could mean he goes on season-ending injured reserve.
How does this impact the Broncos cornerback room?
With roster cuts looming on Tuesday, the Denver Broncos have several options they can look at regarding the position. Which in-house players can help lessen the blow of Williams missing time this season?
Essang Bassey, Ja’Quan McMillian, and Riley Moss are names to watch. Bassey will likely begin the season as the team’s starting nickel cornerback.
McMillian demonstrated in the preseason that he can also play inside the nickel.
If Moss goes on short-term IR, the team may consider other options.
Some veteran free agent names available include Bryce Callahan and P.J. Williams.
Callahan appeared in 15 total games for the Los Chargers last season and hasn’t landed on another team yet.
Williams played under Payton and the Saints for seven seasons and could be a veteran addition.
Regardless, with K’Waun set to miss time, Payton and the Broncos could look at other team’s players on the waiver wire, with them being fifth in the order.
Roster cuts are expected to circulate rapidly in the next 24 hours.
