Sanders had teamed with Strnad this offseason to become the Broncos’ top backup inside linebacker tandem. The starters at the position, Singleton and Greenlaw, are also coming off serious injuries, although they have been healthy and performed well early in camp.

Sanders, who was carted off the practice field on Saturday, is set to miss an " extended period " of time after suffering a tendon injury in his foot, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport first reported Sunday. He is not expected to return before the Broncos kick off the regular season against the Tennessee Titans on Sept. 7.

Denver Broncos linebacker Drew Sanders is expected to miss the start of the 2025 season after suffering a tendon injury in his foot.

There are a handful of free agents who could step in and immediately elevate the floor of the Denver Broncos' roster.