A day after Von Miller predicted a big year for Shane Ray, Broncos coach Vance Joseph announced Ray will miss the next 6-8 weeks.
The pass-rusher tore a ligament in his left wrist and will undergo surgery Saturday.
Ray was hurt in Thursday’s practice, but he practiced Friday with a brace. Further testing revealed the bad news on Ray.
“Right now, he’ll be counting weeks,” Joseph said. “Hopefully he’s back [soon]. We’re hopeful he’ll be back by Buffalo [in Week 3]. It’s really weird because it’s the same area as [RB Devontae] Booker. Booker had the bone that was fractured. [Ray] has the ligament torn that’s attached to the same bone that Booker fractured. That’s where we are.
“It happens. I’m disappointed again for the player more than us. He’s worked so hard, and he’s making strides to have a great year. It happens. Injuries happen. In my opinion, they’re going to happen. Right now, I think we’re in great shape. They’re happening early so we can get these guys back for the full season. Obviously, I’m disappointed for him.”
Joseph said he will meet with General Manager John Elway to discuss the team’s options, with a roster move possible.
The Broncos already are without Shaq Barrett, whom Denver placed on the non-football injury list after he hurt his hip working out away from the facility. Joseph has said Barrett could miss the start of the regular season.
“Shaq’s timetable has not changed,” Joseph said. “We’re hoping to get Shaq back in the same area as those guys, hopefully Week 2 or 3.”
The Broncos had hoped for a breakout year for Ray, a first-round pick in 2015, after the retirement of DeMarcus Ware. Ray has 12 career sacks, including eight last season. He saw his first action as a starter last season when Ware was injured.