Ty Warren placed on IR

The Denver Broncos ended the waiting game on their highest-priced free agent of the 2011 offseason. Defensive tackle Ty Warren was placed on season-ending injured reserve Monday as the team promoted running back Jeremiah Johnson from the practice squad.

It’s interesting the Broncos didn’t simply make this move when they finalized the 53-man roster two weeks ago. According to the Denver Post‘s Mike Klis, Warren was placed on injured reserve now for two reasons: his roster spot was at a premium with the recent tumult of injuries, and he suffered a setback.

This was Warren’s second straight season being placed on injured reserve without playing a snap.

The Broncos signed the long-time Patriot to a two-year, $8 million deal, so Warren has 2012 to make the Broncos’ investment worthwhile. If he doesn’t, he likely won’t get a 2013; his career is in jeopardy.