Denver Broncos’ inside linebacker Alex Singleton has been ruled out for the remainder of the 2024 NFL season after suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee. Head coach Sean Payton announced the injury on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, noting that Singleton will undergo surgery within the next two weeks.
Injury Occurrence and Aftermath
Singleton sustained the injury during the first quarter of the Broncos’ 26-7 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on September 22. Remarkably, he continued to play all 57 defensive snaps, finishing the game with a team-high 10 tackles. It wasn’t until after the game that Singleton reported knee soreness, leading to an MRI that confirmed the ACL tear.
Coach Payton expressed astonishment at Singleton’s resilience, stating, “First time; I’ve had players who had ACLs… [but] never seen one where he felt like he could have played another game that night.”
Impact on the Team
Singleton, 30, was leading the Broncos with 31 tackles over the first three games of the season, placing him tied for eighth in the league. His absence leaves a significant void in Denver’s defense, both in terms of performance and leadership. Cornerback Patrick Surtain II highlighted the magnitude of the loss, remarking, “It’s a tough blow and a tough loss. Honestly, he’s a key leader to our team. Losing a guy like that is pretty hard.”
Career Highlights and Background
Singleton’s journey to the NFL is a testament to his determination. After going undrafted out of Montana State in 2015, he had brief stints with the Seattle Seahawks, New England Patriots, and Minnesota Vikings before finding success in the Canadian Football League (CFL) with the Calgary Stampeders. His standout performances in the CFL led to an opportunity with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2019, where he recorded 120 and 137 tackles in the 2020 and 2021 seasons, respectively.
In March 2022, Singleton signed a one-year contract with the Denver Broncos, reuniting him with quarterback Russell Wilson. His impressive play earned him a three-year, $18 million contract extension in March 2023.
Next Steps for the Broncos
To address the void left by Singleton’s injury, the Broncos have placed him on injured reserve and are exploring options to bolster their linebacker corps. Justin Strnad, currently listed behind Singleton on the depth chart, is expected to see increased playing time. Additionally, the team has signed veteran linebackers Kwon Alexander and Zach Cunningham to the practice squad. Alexander, 30, brings experience from his time with the Buccaneers, 49ers, Saints, Jets, and Steelers, while Cunningham, 29, has played for the Texans, Titans, and Eagles.
Conclusion
Alex Singleton’s season-ending injury is a significant setback for the Denver Broncos, given his pivotal role in the team’s defense. His resilience in playing through the injury underscores his dedication and toughness. As Singleton focuses on his recovery and rehabilitation, the Broncos will need to adapt and rely on their depth to navigate the challenges ahead in the 2024 NFL season.
Denver Broncos’ inside linebacker Alex Singleton has been ruled out for the remainder of the 2024 NFL season after suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee. Head coach Sean Payton announced the injury on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, noting that Singleton will undergo surgery within the next two weeks.
Injury Occurrence and Aftermath
Singleton sustained the injury during the first quarter of the Broncos’ 26-7 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on September 22. Remarkably, he continued to play all 57 defensive snaps, finishing the game with a team-high 10 tackles. It wasn’t until after the game that Singleton reported knee soreness, leading to an MRI that confirmed the ACL tear.
Coach Payton expressed astonishment at Singleton’s resilience, stating, “First time; I’ve had players who had ACLs… [but] never seen one where he felt like he could have played another game that night.”
Impact on the Team
Singleton, 30, was leading the Broncos with 31 tackles over the first three games of the season, placing him tied for eighth in the league. His absence leaves a significant void in Denver’s defense, both in terms of performance and leadership. Cornerback Patrick Surtain II highlighted the magnitude of the loss, remarking, “It’s a tough blow and a tough loss. Honestly, he’s a key leader to our team. Losing a guy like that is pretty hard.”
Career Highlights and Background
Singleton’s journey to the NFL is a testament to his determination. After going undrafted out of Montana State in 2015, he had brief stints with the Seattle Seahawks, New England Patriots, and Minnesota Vikings before finding success in the Canadian Football League (CFL) with the Calgary Stampeders. His standout performances in the CFL led to an opportunity with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2019, where he recorded 120 and 137 tackles in the 2020 and 2021 seasons, respectively.
In March 2022, Singleton signed a one-year contract with the Denver Broncos, reuniting him with quarterback Russell Wilson. His impressive play earned him a three-year, $18 million contract extension in March 2023.
Next Steps for the Broncos
To address the void left by Singleton’s injury, the Broncos have placed him on injured reserve and are exploring options to bolster their linebacker corps. Justin Strnad, currently listed behind Singleton on the depth chart, is expected to see increased playing time. Additionally, the team has signed veteran linebackers Kwon Alexander and Zach Cunningham to the practice squad. Alexander, 30, brings experience from his time with the Buccaneers, 49ers, Saints, Jets, and Steelers, while Cunningham, 29, has played for the Texans, Titans, and Eagles.
Conclusion
Alex Singleton’s season-ending injury is a significant setback for the Denver Broncos, given his pivotal role in the team’s defense. His resilience in playing through the injury underscores his dedication and toughness. As Singleton focuses on his recovery and rehabilitation, the Broncos will need to adapt and rely on their depth to navigate the challenges ahead in the 2024 NFL season.