LenDale White changed numbers Thursday night, but didn't get to wear it long. (PHOTO: MAXDENVER.COM)
Broncos running back LenDale White hoped for the best, but got the worst news Friday — a torn Achilles tendon that ended his season before it began.
White suffered the injury at the end of a nine-yard run during Thursday’s 31-24 preseason loss at Minnesota. He rose, but could not put any weight on his leg and left the field via a cart. White also needed a cart to leave the stadium following the loss.
The Broncos placed him on injured reserve, from which he will serve his four-game substance-abuse suspension.
White’s injury robs the Broncos of a potential answer to the team’s short-yardage struggles, which became apparent late last season, particularly in the November home loss to the San Diego Chargers. He had been effective in short yardage for the Broncos the last five days, scoring against the Steelers and Vikings.
The Broncos did get Correll Buckhalter back Thursday and expect to have Knowshon Moreno back by the season opener. Lance Ball, who started the first two preseason games, could end up rounding out the team’s tailback complement.
The good news is it’s a little easier to pick up quality running backs this late than a lot of other positions. I hope there is a good short yardage back out there in the cuts being made across the league. I would also like to see Larsen run some in short yardage situations.