Broncos' Shane Ray expected to be placed on IR

The Broncos were plagued by injuries throughout training camp, but are set to have almost the entire team available to start the regular season. Unfortunately, though, one injury appears to be worse than once thought.

Starting outside linebacker Shane Ray was tabbed to return from a torn ligament in his wrist sometime in the first three weeks of the season, but—as reported by Adam Schefter of ESPN—he is now expected to be placed on the injured reserve list Saturday afternoon. Ray will be eligible to return to practice after Week 6 and to the active roster after Week 8.

Ray, who starts opposite Von Miller, was poised for a breakout year after future Hall-of-Famer DeMarcus Ware retired in March. The 24-year-old posted eight sacks as a depth rusher last season and four as a rookie in 2015.

Shaq Barrett, who recently returned to action after suffering an offseason hip injury, will start in place of the injured Ray. Kasim Edebali and DeMarcus Walker should also see increased playing time.