The 2017 NFL offseason has not been kind the outside linebacker spot opposite Von Miller for the Denver Broncos.
The position’s first loss came with the retirement of future Hall of Famer DeMarcus Ware. Then, in late May, Shaquil Barrett went down with a hip injury that should sideline him at least until Week 2, and Shane Ray should have the same timeline in his rehab, after injuring his wrist a few days ago.
All of a sudden, a position that Denver has strongly prioritized through free agency and the draft, around the pass rush and secondary, is now depleted heading into the start of the season.