Professor

The Denver Post - Tough move looms

excerpt:

Just two weeks ago, Warrick Holdman was the leading candidate to open the season as the Broncos' starting strongside linebacker.

Today, Holdman's career with the Broncos is finished.

A fluke hit that resulted in a serious injury doomed Holdman's stay in Denver. After suffering what was called a spinal cord concussion while attempting to tackle running back Mike Bell on Aug. 2, Holdman, an eight-year starter in Chicago and Washington, began experiencing tingling in his arms. The symptoms led to more tests, which revealed a bruise on the spinal column.

Doctors recommended that Holdman sit out the next three months.

"That's terrible to hear," Broncos defensive end Kenard Lang said. "You don't wish that kind of injury for anybody, but especially a guy who is trying to get established with a new organization. That's rough."

It's about to get rougher. With a roster bonus due next week, the Broncos will waive Holdman and negotiate an injury claim.

The injury occurred while Holdman was closing in to hit Bell. Just as Holdman recoiled for the hit, he was knocked slightly off-balance by a block from rookie tackle Ryan Harris. Holdman's neck was in an awkward position as he hit Bell. Holdman fell face first to the ground, where he remained motionless for several seconds while Bell continued to run down the field.

Holdman is the second No. 1 strongside linebacker to go down in the past month. During the final minicamp in July, Eddie Moore suffered a knee injury that led to his release.

Two down, but the Broncos believe they have plenty more to go. D.D. Lewis, Nate Webster and Louis Green are left vying for the position.

Lewis, who was hampered by a severe turf toe injury the past two seasons in Seattle, is expected to start Monday in the preseason opener at San Francisco.

"I'm looking forward to showing everybody that I'm healthy, I'm back," Lewis said. "This is a real good defensive system here. Everybody has a chance to make plays."

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