The Denver Broncos are aware at how important it is that Peyton Manning has talent on the offensive line to protect him. However, the Broncos are now concerned his blind side protection might be out for some time. As Ryan Clady's season remains up in the air, Denver is working out players just in case.
All Pro Clady has not missed a start since getting drafted back in 2008, but that streak is at risk in Week 3 of the season. The Denver Post is reporting that Clady underwent an MRI on a lingering foot injury that revealed a possible Lisfranc Sprain. As of now, the Broncos are not putting a timetable on how long Clady will be out, but ESPN's Adam Schefter says it could be a few weeks or it could mean injured reserve for the Pro Bowl player.
Lisfranc sprains can take multiple months to heal. As of now that would mean Chris Clark would be the new blind side protector for Manning. He just signed a contract extension, but that is now stopping Denver from looking for outside help.
Ed Werder of ESPN reports the Broncos are working out Winston Justice as a precaution to Clady. The former Philadelphia Eagle spent last season with the Indianapolis Colts playing 12 games. Justice generated some buzz in free agency, working out with multiple teams, but remained unsigned. The Broncos interest in him is a bit odd. Justice's experience comes on the right side of the line so it is unlikely he would leap Clark for playing time.
The Broncos must decide the move to make with Clady. He could end up in injured reserve which would open up a roster spot for someone like Justice. But if Clady gets healthy faster than expected, the Broncos would lose him until Week 11.
Sources are saying the Broncos find signing Justice as the right move. The team is expected to announce the signing on Wednesday. He would receive the league minimum. Clark is expected to start on Monday Night Football, but Justice should see plenty of playing time.
