Denver Broncos face a crisis as LB Drew Sanders is injured in July 2025 camp. With his Week 1 status in doubt, how will the team and QB Bo Nix respond?
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The optimism of training camp was dealt a significant blow on Monday as news confirmed that linebacker Drew Sanders will miss several weeks with a foot injury suffered over the weekend. The injury, which saw Sanders carted off the practice field, creates a major hole in the heart of the defense and forces the front office to immediately evaluate external options.
He's a tremendous leader. The way he carries himself, the way he approaches the game... you can tell he's ready to take that next step.
The loss of Drew Sanders, who was pegged for a key role, is a gut punch for Vance Joseph's defense. While the team is relieved the injury wasn't an Achilles tear, his absence will be lengthy, with his status for the Week 1 opener against the Titans officially listed as questionable. The Broncos are now expected to aggressively pursue help in the free-agent market. Names like Kyzir White and Ja'Whaun Bentley are already being floated as potential targets, as Denver has a history of bringing in veteran linebackers like Kwon Alexander and Zach Cunningham to plug injury gaps.
While the defense is dealing with adversity, the offense is rallying around its clear leader. Bo Nix has entered his second year with a noticeable improvement in his command and decision-making, with observers noting his quicker reads and better rhythm in drills. His teammates have taken notice. Cornerback Pat Surtain II praised him as a 'tremendous leader,' while offensive tackle Mike McGlinchey, who was absent from the media portion of Monday's practice, previously highlighted Nix's intense 'competitive nature.' This growth is the single most important development for the Broncos' hopes of becoming a contender.
Nix's development is being bolstered by the return of key weapons. Wide receiver Courtland Sutton was a full participant in team drills Monday, a welcome sight for an offense that needs its top target. Adding to the buzz are rumors of a potential reunion with former first-round tight end Noah Fant, a move that could provide another dynamic pass-catcher. The team is also getting healthier, with veterans Dre Greenlaw and Alex Singleton returning to defensive drills, and key contributors P.J. Locke, J.K. Dobbins, and Devaughn Vele all ramping up their activity. Keep an eye on outside linebacker Andrew Farmer, who is making a strong case to be this year's surprise 53-man roster addition.
A championship-caliber team needs to be strong in all three phases, and the Broncos' special teams unit is quietly aiming for elite status. The hiring of renowned coach Darren Rizzi is already paying dividends, and the early performance of rookie punter Jeremy Crawshaw has been impressive. With the reliable Wil Lutz handling kicking duties, this often-overlooked unit could become a hidden weapon for Denver, flipping field position and creating advantages that win close games.
The Sanders injury is the first major test of the 2025 season, forcing the Broncos to show their resilience and depth. The front office's next move at linebacker will be critical. But with Bo Nix looking poised for a second-year leap and key offensive pieces falling into place, there's still plenty of reason for optimism in Broncos Country. The coming weeks will reveal just how this team responds to adversity on its path back to contention.
