Denver Broncos starting right guard Ronald Leary was officially placed on injured reserve Tuesday morning, the team announced.
Leary started 11 games for the Broncos before suffering a back injury against the Raiders in Week 11. The proficient guard was one of Denver’s most-prized free agent signings this offseason when he agreed to a four-year, $35 million contract that will keep him in Denver through his age-31 season.
Leary was a bright spot on the Broncos’ struggling offensive line this season. His pass blocking efficiency rating, measured by Pro Football Focus, ranked 14th among NFL guards. Leary allowed two sacks, three quarterback hits and nine hurries in 425 pass blocking snaps.