The Denver Broncos are shifting their lineup after placing defensive lineman Malcolm Roach on injured reserve due to a Grade 2 calf strain, sidelining him for a minimum of four games. In response to the roster gap, the team has promoted third-string quarterback Sam Ehlinger from its practice squad to the active roster. Roach's injury occurred during Thursday's practice and now mandates a recovery period that the Broncos hope will see him back on the field by week five, according to Mile High Report.
Roach's absence deals a hit to Denver's defense, with the lineman having contributed significantly last season, his first with the Broncos. He played in every regular and postseason game, achieving highs in tackles and sacks. Now in the final year of his contract, valued at $2.75 million, the downtime could impact his market value. Despite the gap left by Roach, the Broncos will look towards Zach Allen, D.J. Jones, and John Franklin-Myers to maintain the line's strength, as reported by Pro Football Rumors.
Ehlinger, initially cut from the roster and assigned to the practice squad, had received offers from other teams, but chose to stay with the Broncos for long-term considerations. In the wake of Roach's injury, his loyalty was rewarded with an active roster position. In his preseason performances, Ehlinger completed an impressive 76.6% of his passes for 360 yards over two games, demonstrating his readiness to serve as an emergency backup to starting quarterback Bo Nix and secondary QB Jarrett Stidham. 9NEWS relayed Ehlinger's thoughts on the need for practice-squad players to stay prepared: "You never know if an injury happens during the week or they want to elevate you, you’ve always got to be ready whenever it comes."
Meanwhile, with Roach out, the Broncos' defense will rely on depth, looking to players like Eyioma Uwazuruike and Jordan Jackson, who have shown promise over the summer. Rookie Sai’vion Jones might also see active play due to the vacancy. The team's run defense, strengthened last season by Roach's participation, will now depend on these players stepping up. Despite the shift, there's a hopeful sentiment that the impact will be minimal, with Mile High Report noting, "Hopefully, we never have to see Ehlinger take the field for the Broncos, and we see Uwazuruike and Jackson step in for Roach and not miss a beat."
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