Broncos LB Alex Singleton Injured in First Quarter, Out for Season

Alex Singleton, the Broncos' starting linebacker and team captain, suffered a torn ACL during a game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, which took place on a Sunday. Despite the injury occurring in the first quarter, Singleton remarkably played through the pain and participated in every defensive snap, contributing to the team's 26-7 victory. Coach Sean Payton expressed surprise at the injury, noting that Singleton did not report any issues during the game, which is characteristic of his tough playing style. Singleton has been a key player for the Broncos, leading the team in tackles and re-signing for a three-year, $18 million contract in 2023. His absence will be felt significantly, as he had already recorded 31 tackles in just three games of the current season. Following the announcement of his injury, Singleton was placed on injured reserve and is scheduled for surgery in two weeks. In response to the loss of Singleton, the Broncos have added two experienced linebackers, Kwon Alexander and Zach Cunningham, to their practice squad. Both players bring a wealth of experience, with Alexander having played for several teams, including the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Cunningham being a former second-round pick of the Houston Texans. The team is now exploring various options to fill the void left by Singleton, with Payton indicating that they have multiple directions to consider. The defense is rallying together in support of Singleton, recognizing the impact of his absence on their performance moving forward.