Broncos fullback Andy Janovich is expected to miss 6-8 weeks after straining a pectoral muscle during a 22-14 loss to the Seahawks on Thursday evening, according to KUSA-TV’s Mike Klis.
Denver was bracing for bad news so a possible mid-season return for Janovich is “better than we expected,” a team representative told Klis. With Janovich sidelined until midseason, undrafted rookie George Aston will have a much greater chance of making the 53-man roster.
Broncos offensive coordinator Rich Scangarello uses a fullback both in the passing game and in the running game so Aston should get plenty of playing time if he makes the team. Janovich was also an important player on special teams so Aston may be asked to replace his role on those units as well.
Aston got some action in Thursday’s game after Janovich left in the first half. The Pittsburgh product finished the contest with one catch for seven yards. Aston will likely see his role expanded when Denver hosts the 49ers on ESPN’s “Monday Night Football” in Week 2 of preseason.
