The Denver Broncos are facing a significant setback as they lose veteran right tackle Mike McGlinchey to a knee injury, forcing them to rework their offensive line in front of rookie quarterback Bo Nix. Nix, who has already struggled with pressure and sacks in his first two games, will now be without one of his most experienced protectors.
According to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, McGlinchey suffered a serious MCL sprain and is expected to miss about a month. The injury occurred during the final minutes of the Broncos’ 13-6 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers on September 16.
“With 2:01 left in the game, Broncos quarterback Bo Nix threw an incomplete pass from the Steelers’ 11-yard line,” 9News’ Mike Klis reported. “McGlinchey, blocking edge rusher T.J. Watt, was inadvertently rolled up from behind and went down.”
McGlinchey’s absence is a significant blow, as he has been a major supporter of Nix’s development since his arrival. In 2023, McGlinchey missed just one game in his first season with the Broncos. Before that, he played all 17 regular-season games and three playoff games with the San Francisco 49ers in 2022. McGlinchey is currently in Year 2 of a five-year, $87.5 million contract with Denver, which was restructured in March to create cap space.
Who Will Step Up to Replace McGlinchey?
Second-year tackle Alex Palczewski filled in for McGlinchey after his injury. Palczewski, an undrafted free agent from Illinois, had minimal experience before this, with just two offensive snaps under his belt. However, there may be other options for the Broncos.
Undrafted rookie Frank Crum, who has been inactive for the first two weeks of the season, could be a contender. Broncos head coach Sean Payton has spoken highly of Crum, praising his potential and performance during training camp. Payton remarked, “His tape has been really good. His size and upside made him a valuable addition to our roster.”
Veteran Backup in the Mix
Another potential option is veteran Matt Peart, who spent the first four seasons of his career with the New York Giants before joining the Broncos in free agency. Peart could emerge as a dark horse candidate if Palczewski struggles and Crum remains inactive.
The Broncos face a tough challenge in Week 3 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who are known for their aggressive blitzing. Whoever steps in for McGlinchey will need to be ready for a major test in protecting Nix and stabilizing Denver’s offensive line.
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