Broncos deny report that Trevor Siemian won't be healthy until training camp
Trevor Siemian's shoulder injury may be worse than expected.
Siemian is "unlikely to practice fully" until training camp, according to Brandon Stokley, a former NFL receiver who now works for 104.3 The Fan. Stokley reported that Siemian suffered a grade 5 AC joint sprain, an injury that could keep him sidelined for up to six months.
Siemian underwent surgery on his left shoulder in January.
Team spokesperson Patrick Smyth denied Stokley's report, reiterating that Siemian is on track to return for organized team activities.
As Tim Lynch of Mile High Report has pointed out, the Broncos can begin OTAs on April 3 because they have a new head coach in Vance Joseph. April is a far cry from July 27-30, which is when Denver is expected to begin training camp.
If Siemian is unable to participate in OTAs, it will give second-year quarterback Paxton Lynch an edge in the team's starting quarterback competition. Broncos general manager John Elway has said that the team will have an open competition this offseason. The team has also leaked reports that they hope to determine if Lynch will be the starter during OTAs.
Lynch would obviously have a big advantage in the competition if Siemian isn't healthy enough to practice. But if the team is being honest, Siemian will be ready to return to the field in early April.
Another potential drawback for Siemian could be the presence of Tony Romo, who expects to be released by the Cowboys. Siemian is well aware of the Romo-to-Denver rumors.
"It doesn't [bother me]," Siemian told Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk earlier this month. "That's the deal I'm in. I was a seventh-round pick. I'm not as dumb as I look, I'm going to have to fight and scratch and claw my way my whole career. I'm fine with that."
The 25-year-old signal-caller may be headed for a long offseason.
