Peyton Manning‘s blind side just become much more vulnerable.
Broncos left tackle Ryan Clady, who was diagnosed with a Lisfranc sprain in his left foot after Sunday’s game, will be placed on injured reserve and miss the remainder of the 2013 season, according to the Broncos.
Clady, 28, is a two-time first-team All-Pro, making his absence a huge loss for Manning and the Broncos. He is the second starting offensive lineman to suffer a season-ending injury, as center Dan Koppen tore his ACL during training camp.
Clady signed a new five-year, $57.5 million deal, including $33 million guaranteed, this offseason, securing his future with the team. His absence will leave Manning, who has thrown nine touchdowns and no interceptions through two games, with less comfort and security on the left side of the line. Clady hasn’t allowed a sack in either game this season and allowed just one sack in 16 games in 2012.
The Broncos signed veteran tackle Winston Justice, who has played for the Eagles and Cowboys in his career, on Wednesday to help reinforce their offensive line. Veteran Chris Clark, who has started just six games in five-plus NFL seasons, is likely to start at left tackle in Clady’s place.
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