Denver Broncos rookie inside linebacker Justin Strnad (wrist) will have surgery and miss the entire year, coach Vic Fangio confirmed after practice Monday. Strnad dislocated his wrist and had “other complications” that will end his season, according to Fangio.
Strnad (6-3, 238 pounds) was selected by the Broncos in the fifth round of this year’s draft. During his time at Wake Forest, Strnad totaled 244 tackles — including 22.5 tackles for losses — eight sacks, four interceptions and 10 pass breakups.
If not for his injury, Strnad would have had an opportunity to feature on special teams and rotate in on defense this season. Strnad has experience playing safety and his coverage ability would have made him a likely candidate to sub in for Todd Davis in passing situations.
With Strnad now expected to miss the season, Justin Hollins, Josey Jewell, Josh Watson and Joe Jones will be competing for more playing time. Davis and Alexander Johnson are expected to serve as the two starters at inside linebacker.
After losing Strnad, Denver might consider bringing in another linebacker to add depth and competition. One candidate the team may consider is eight-year veteran Nigel Bradham, who was just cut by the New Orleans Saints.
