The Denver Broncos defense has taken a couple of blows this week ahead of their first regular season game on Sunday, with injuries to Dre Greenlaw and Malcolm Roach. Denver’s key rotational defensive lineman left practice early on Thursday.
Denver Broncos DL Malcolm Roach dealing with Grade 2 calf strain
Malcolm Roach’s status for Sunday’s game against the Tennessee Titans is looking unclear after he left Thursday’s practice early with what the team called a calf injury, leading to him being a limited participant in practice.
As first reported by 9News’ Mike Klis, Roach has a Grade 2 calf strain. The timing is not ideal ahead of Denver’s season opener, and it could put his status for Sunday’s game in jeopardy.
There are three different levels of calf strains, starting with mild, leading to moderate, and severe. Roach’s falls under the moderate category.
A Grade 2 calf muscle strain involves a partial tear of the muscle fibers. Symptoms are more pronounced compared to Grade 1, and individuals may experience:
- Moderate to severe pain in the calf.
- Noticeable swelling and tenderness.
- Reduced strength and flexibility in the affected leg.
Recovery for Grade 2 strains may require a more comprehensive approach, including a period of rest, physical therapy, and a gradual return to activities. The Broncos will more than likely begin attacking Roach’s treatment with Beau Lowery and the training staff.
Sean Payton said on Wednesday that he wouldn’t be commenting on players’ injuries during the regular season, so it’s unlikely we get an answer from him unless there is some sort of procedural move like short-term IR.
This could lead to nose tackle Jordan Miller getting a practice squad elevation on gameday if the Broncos need some help on the interior behind Jordan Jackson and Eyioma Uwazurike.
