A different quarterback produced the same result for the Broncos yesterday, as the team’s losing streak extended to four games. Denver appears likely to have their No. 1 signal-caller back in time for their Week 8 game against the Jaguars, though.
When asked if Russell Wilson will return in time for this Sunday’s contest, head coach Nathaniel Hackett said, “He’s trending in that direction. He did everything he could to try to be there, but it was just a little early with that short week. Hopefully, we’ll see him out there and if not, we’ll be smart with him, too.”
Wilson suffered a hamstring injury during Denver’s "Monday Night Football" loss to the Chargers. The severity of the ailment – which came not long after he also picked up lat and shoulder injuries earlier this year – put Wilson’s Week 7 availability in serious doubt. To little surprise, then, Denver took the cautious approach of starting Brett Rypien yesterday.
The former UDFA’s performance – 225 scoreless yards on 24-of-46 passing, and one interception – certainly didn’t stand out. Given the team’s struggles on offense, however, it was not out of place with Wilson’s showing in his first year in the Mile High City. The nine-time Pro Bowler has completed less than 59 percent of his passes this season, throwing just five touchdowns and averaging 7.3 yards per attempt.
Wilson’s participation in practice this week will, of course, be worth monitoring in the build-up to Denver’s next game. The fact that he lobbied to play yesterday speaks to his willingness to suit up at less than full health, something which the coaching staff must weigh against a long-term view and the increasing urgency they face to meet the offseason’s lofty expectations.
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