The Denver Broncos have officially placed running back Tyler Badie on injured reserve, which seemed like a formality following the scary injury he sustained in Week 4 against the New York Jets. As a result, it will be a minimum of four games before he is back in uniform.
The Broncos have decided to elevate rookie linebacker Levelle Bailey from the practice squad to take Badie's spot on the roster.
After a short reception against the Jets, Badie took a shot to the lower back from New York linebacker Quincy Williams, causing him to fumble the ball. Badie was able to get off the field but was immediately shown lying on the sideline. He was then taken off the field on a stretcher in a concerning scene.
Fortunately, no major damage was reported, but it could be some time before Badie, who was becoming quite the sparkplug for the Broncos, is back with the team.
The Broncos will turn to Javonte Williams and Jaleel McLaughlin to shoulder the load in the running game. Undrafted free agent Blake Watson, who has been inactive for each game, could also be an option.
Fifth-round pick Audric Estime will be eligible to return to the lineup next week after being placed on injured reserve earlier this season. The Broncos could be a team looking for reinforcements in the running game sooner rather than later.
On the season, Badie has 86 yards rushing on 11 carries, but it is his 7.8-yard average that had fans excited as there was a general feeling that he could become the team's most effective back this season.
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