OAKLAND, Calif. — The Broncos' defense was dealt a big blow Sunday when outside linebacker DeMarcus Ware was carted off in the first quarter with a back injury.
Ware intially was ruled as questionable to return to the game, but was ruled out early in the third quarter.
Entering the game Sunday, Ware led the league with 4.5 sacks and made 12 quarterback hits in the first five games.
The Broncos' depth on defense, especially at outside linebacker, will soften the blow. But Ware might be one of the select few whose absence could alter the course of the Broncos' season if the injury is serious.