The Denver Broncos trip to Buffalo came at quite a cost today. Not only did their grip on the AFC West division slip enough to jeopardize any postseason aspirations, but further depleted a Defensive Secondary that had already lost part of its depth earlier in the year. Three Defensive Backs were lost to injury during the Bills 40-14 thrashing of the Broncos.
Safety Brian Dawkins, who had been nursing a Neck injury, exacerbated his condition in the first Quarter. Dawkins returned to the game, but left again after a few plays. He finished with 3 Tackles. It is unknown at this time, if he will miss the season finale against the Kansas City Chiefs. The emotional leader of the Broncos will likely end his season with 51 Tackles, 3 Sacks, 6 Pass Break Ups and a Forced Fumble.
Rookie Safety Quinton Carter suffered a Hamstring injury and did not return to the game. His day ended with 2 Tackles. Before the injury, Carter had trouble with a few missed Tackles and botched Special Teams assignments. Carter's season totals are 53 Tackles and one Sack in 9 starts.
The third casualty might be the worst for the Broncos. Rookie CFA Chris Harris suffered a pinched nerve in his neck during a tackle on Bills Quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick in the 4th quarter. Harris had 8 Tackles to lead the team for the 3rd time this season. Chris is third on the Broncos with 69 Tackles and also has 5 Pass Break Ups and an Interception for the season. During today's contest, Harris was the surest Tackler for Denver and has shown consistency all season.
The loss of all three players will hurt the Broncos if they cannot suit up for the Chiefs. Head coach John Fox could not elaborate on the severity of the players injuries, but the Broncos Defensive backfield is paper thin in the depth department.