Broncos fans need not worry about the Antonio Smith situation

It's been nearly a month since the Broncos excused defensive lineman Antonio Smith from OTAs so he could deal with a legal situation regarding accusations of child abuse.

Fans in Denver have been left to wonder and worry when - or if - he will return.

But there's no point in worrying. Either he's coming back, or he's not.

There's no negative outcome for the team.

Either Smith will be fully cleared and re-join the roster providing depth, or he will be indicted and the Broncos will be able to part ways with him right away.

Smith would provide nice depth to Denver's defensive line, but he is replaceable. The Broncos have a good corps of defensive ends and tackles to choose from, highlighted by Derek Wolfe, Malik Jackson, Vance Walker, Sylvester Williams and Marvin Austin.

Outside linebackers DeMarcus Ware, Von Miller and Shane Ray are also expected to frequently rush off the edge, providing Denver even more depth on the D-line.

So while we await news on Smith, it's probably best to picture a d-line without him.

Best-case scenario, he'll return and we'll be surprised. That's better than the alternative.