Denver Broncos linebacker Alex Singleton, a central figure in the team’s defensive engine and one of the league’s most consistent tacklers, suffered a significant injury during training camp this week. While the nature of the injury has yet to be fully disclosed by the team, initial reports confirm that Singleton will require the use of a protective “club” — typically a heavily padded cast — on one of his hands or forearms. For Broncos fans and team personnel, the news hit with an uneasy balance: it’s undeniably a setback for one of their key defensive leaders, but it comes with a silver lining. Despite the injury, Singleton is expected to play through it.
This development comes at a time when the Broncos defense, already under significant pressure to deliver results in 2025, was banking on leadership and performance from veterans like Singleton. The linebacker has carved out a reputation for himself as one of the most durable and productive defenders in the NFL. Last season, Singleton led the team in tackles for the second consecutive year, amassing 177 total stops with the same mix of relentless hustle, positional discipline, and fearless pursuit that has defined his career since entering the league. A hand or wrist injury for most players could spell a long-term absence or, at the very least, a dip in performance. But Singleton’s situation is different. He has a history of playing through pain, and early indications are that his determination and toughness will again be on display.
The “club” — the padded cast he will likely wear — has become a symbol of grit in the NFL. Over the years, fans have seen numerous defenders, particularly linebackers and defensive linemen, use the club to continue contributing on the field despite broken bones or ligament damage in the hand or wrist. The apparatus limits dexterity and often reduces a player’s ability to wrap up tackles cleanly or shed blockers with the same precision, but it doesn’t remove the player’s ability to bring impact, particularly in the run game. Singleton, known for his instincts and ability to diagnose plays quickly, may lose some technique in pass coverage or hand fighting, but his core traits remain intact.
The Broncos’ coaching staff faces a complex evaluation now. Do they slightly adjust Singleton’s role to reduce the strain on his injured limb, perhaps limiting his snaps on third down or in coverage-heavy packages? Or do they allow him to continue taking every down as he has so often done, trusting in his toughness and the protection of the club? While many players would see a reduction in role or be placed on the injury list, Singleton’s track record earns him a longer leash. For much of his career, he’s been an ironman, and not just in terms of durability — he plays with a ferocity that often lifts the rest of the unit.
For the Broncos’ defensive coordinator Vance Joseph, the situation introduces both concern and opportunity. Concern stems from the risk of aggravating the injury. Even with a club, Singleton will be exposing his arm to constant impact — whether that’s delivering hits, absorbing them, or trying to shed blocks. But there’s also opportunity. Singleton’s determination to play through injury can be galvanizing for the rest of the unit. It’s the kind of attitude coaches love: sacrificing comfort and even personal health to stay on the field for the team. Younger players, particularly those looking to establish themselves in the league, often take cues from veterans like Singleton. His presence on the field, even at less than 100%, sends a message.
The Broncos’ inside linebacker group beyond Singleton has depth but lacks the same level of experience and playmaking. Josey Jewell is a proven veteran and will likely carry more of the coverage burden now. Rookie Jonah Elliss and young contributors like Justin Strnad will also be monitored closely in the preseason, potentially rotating in more frequently. But none of them bring the vocal leadership and fire that Singleton provides. His injury thus forces a developmental moment for the entire unit. Someone else may need to take over some on-field communication duties temporarily. Play-calling in the huddle could be delegated. Defensive captains may have to step into expanded roles. Yet Singleton, in a club or not, is expected to remain a centerpiece.
The physical setback raises another angle to consider: Singleton’s contractual and long-term standing with the team. Entering the second season of a three-year extension signed with the Broncos, Singleton has been seen as a long-term pillar of the defense. His play has consistently justified the deal. But injuries, even ones that can be played through, shift the calculus. The team may need to consider how they manage Singleton’s reps, not just this season, but going forward. Do they bring in another thumper-type linebacker via free agency or trade as insurance? Do they groom a younger player for that long-term succession plan? These decisions, once comfortably tabled, may be accelerated by the reality of Singleton’s current condition.
Singleton, for his part, has expressed optimism, though not publicly. Teammates and coaches have alluded to his determination to be on the field when the Broncos open their season. He is said to be frustrated — not by the pain, but by the limitation. Singleton isn’t the type of player who relishes sitting out practice reps or taking mental days. He’s built his career on being active, visible, and physical. The club represents both an obstacle and a badge of honor. The fans recognize that. Teammates draw energy from that. Singleton has worn the underdog label for most of his career, having gone undrafted and bounced around practice squads before finding his home in Denver. This is just another chapter in that story.
With the 2025 season fast approaching, the Broncos are still refining their defensive identity. The departure of several older players and the arrival of new faces on the edge and in the secondary means the locker room is in transition. Continuity matters in that environment. Singleton is one of those glue guys who keep the chemistry aligned. Even if he’s not fully healthy, his ability to rally teammates, break down film, and diagnose formations pre-snap can’t be overlooked. His injury may limit his physical reach on the field, but not his influence.
As for fans, this moment will likely deepen their admiration for Singleton. In an era where players are increasingly cautious with injuries — for good reason, given the long-term health implications — Singleton’s willingness to play through pain resonates. It’s not recklessness. It’s resolve. It’s professionalism. It’s a recognition that the team needs his voice and impact on the field. The club is a visible reminder of that commitment. It’s a mark of toughness, but also of trust: Singleton trusts the Broncos to protect him. The Broncos trust Singleton to make the right calls. That mutual respect is the bedrock of championship culture.
Of course, it remains to be seen how effective Singleton can be while wearing the club. Early preseason practices will offer some indication. Coaches will be watching closely for missed tackles, coverage breakdowns, or hesitation in attacking downhill. Singleton’s strength has always been his decisiveness — he doesn’t wait for the play to come to him. If the club affects that reaction time, it could subtly affect the whole unit. But if he adapts quickly, if he finds ways to work around the limitation and still be the heat-seeking missile he’s known as, then the injury may fade into the background storylines of the season.
Ultimately, injuries are part of football. What defines great players isn’t avoiding them — it’s how they respond. Singleton’s story in 2025 is now being written around a protective club, but if history is any indication, it won’t slow him down for long. In fact, it might even fuel him. Singleton has never needed much to find motivation. A missed tackle, a low PFF grade, a team doubting his value — all those things have sparked some of his best performances. Playing hurt with a cast on his arm? That might be just the kind of adversity he thrives on. The Broncos, for all their uncertainty in recent years, still have leaders worth rallying around. Alex Singleton, cast and all, remains one of them.
