Denver Broncos starting nickelback K'Waun Williams, who hasn't practiced since Aug. 7 due to an ankle injury, received a second opinion on the malady earlier this week, 9NEWS' Mike Klis reported Tuesday.
Per Klis, the second doctor who examined Williams recommended treatment and rest — as opposed to surgery — "with the goal" of playing in the Sept. 10 regular-season opener versus Las Vegas.
Injuries, unfortunately, are nothing new for Williams, a ninth-year vet who's yet to complete a full NFL campaign. He missed three games last season with torn ligaments in his wrist and hand, after which he sported a massive cast.
Quietly one of Denver's top defensive players, Williams still managed 30 solo tackles, seven pass deflections, and one interception, grading out as Pro Football Focus' No. 44 CB among 118 qualifiers.
“He’s had a good camp," head coach Sean Williams said of Williams on Aug. 2. "He’s got good ball skills. You see his speed, and he’s got really good range. I think he plays well deep and some guys have trouble with the ball deep, but he’s someone that I think is very comfortable going from low to high, and vice versa. I think he stood out.”
Likely sidelined for the remainder of the preseason, Williams' absence will lead to further exposure for reserve nickel Essang Bassey, who started last week's exhibition loss to the Cardinals, logging 16 snaps.
Payton said Thursday that the Broncos' first-string will see “somewhere between 20 and 24 plays" in Saturday's matchup against the 49ers.
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