Broncos Deal with Heartbreaking Loss as Key Starter Ends Season with Career-Ending Knee Injury
The Denver Broncos will need to adjust their offensive line as rookie first-round pick Bo Nix, who has already faced challenges with sacks, will now be without one of his starting tackles for the next month.
Mike McGlinchey, the veteran tackle, is expected to be sidelined for about a month due to a significant MCL sprain, as reported by NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo on September 16. The exact timeline for his recovery remains uncertain. McGlinchey suffered the injury late in the Broncos’ 13-6 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
According to 9News’ Mike Klis, McGlinchey was injured during a play where Nix threw an incomplete pass to the end zone. McGlinchey was blocking edge rusher T.J. Watt when he was inadvertently rolled up from behind by left tackle Garett Bolles and his opponent.
McGlinchey, who was a strong supporter of Nix’s development, will be missed not just for his on-field performance but also for his influence on the rookie.
McGlinchey missed only one game in 2023 during his first season with the Broncos. He had a full season with the San Francisco 49ers in 2022 before signing a five-year, $87.5 million contract with Denver.
In McGlinchey’s absence, second-year tackle Alex Palczewski, an undrafted free agent from Illinois, stepped in. Palczewski has seen limited action, with just two offensive snaps so far this season and six special teams snaps.
Another option could be Frank Crum, an undrafted free agent from 2024 who has yet to see game action. Broncos head coach Sean Payton has praised Crum’s performance and potential, noting his impressive tape and athleticism.
Veteran Matt Peart, who joined the Broncos from the New York Giants, could also be a candidate to replace Palczewski if needed.
The Broncos will face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 3, which should test the effectiveness of McGlinchey’s replacement, given the Buccaneers’ aggressive blitzing strategy.
