Clady, Kuper Hopeful to Play Sunday

Ryan Clady (AP Photo)

The Denver Broncos have been ravaged by injuries all season long and all over the football field, with one exception – the offensive line. After Sunday’s 10-30 loss to the Carolina Panthers, however, that was no longer the case. Ryan Clady, who might not be a Pro Bowler but is still the best damn left tackle in the league, along with right guard Chris Kuper, both suffered injuries that could threaten their respective appearances in Sunday’s regular season home finale against Buffalo.

Both players were held out of practice Wednesday.

Clady hurt his ankle on the last play of Sunday’s game, but is hopeful to play. Kuper broke his left hand and is wearing a soft cast similar to the one he wore throughout training camp on his right hand.

Head Coach Mike Shanahan said the players will need to practice in order to play. “We’ll find out over the next couple of days,” Shanahan said. Rookies Tyler Polumbus and Kory Lichtensteiger are listed below both players on the depth chart and would likely start if either or both players can’t go.

“It’s just sore,” Clady told reporters Wednesday. “I should be able to play.” Kuper also said he was hopeful to play Sunday.

The first play after Kuper went out with his hand injury, Lichtensteiger gave up the Broncos’ ninth sack of the season. If that doesn’t show how important these guys are, I don’t know what does. We need Kuper and Clady healthy to beat the Bills and continue our playoff push. Hopefully they’ll practice today and get ready for a snowy, snowy Sunday.