Shane Ray Injury: Updates on Broncos LB's Knee and Return

Denver Broncos defender Shane Ray suffered a sprained MCL in the team's Week 6 victory over the Cleveland Browns and was carted off the field. He hasn't played since but is ready to return.

Continue for updates.     

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Ray Active for Week 10

Sunday, Nov. 15

Ben Swanson of DenverBroncos.com confirmed Ray was available to play against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday.

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Kubiak Comments on Ray's Playing Status

Wednesday, Nov. 11

Head coach Gary Kubiak said Ray has a good chance to play Sunday vs. the New Orleans Saints, per Mike Klis of the Denver Post.

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Latest on Ray's Practice Status

Wednesday, Nov. 11

Klis reported Ray participated in practice.

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Ray's Return Boost Vital Broncos Defense

Denver drafted Ray 23rd overall in April, looking for him to bolster a pass-rushing attack that had already featured sack artists such as Von Miller and DeMarcus Ware. 

With Ware dealing with a back injury that kept him out of the contest against Cleveland, Ray's injury was another blow for a unit that has carried Denver all season long.

Health was an issue for the former Missouri standout before the draft, as he skipped February's NFL Scouting Combine workouts with a foot injury. He did return in time for the preseason, recording one solo tackle in Denver's first game against the Seattle Seahawks. Through the first five games, Ray had largely served as a situational pass-rusher, picking up four tackles and two sacks. 

Ray established himself as one of the nation's premier pass-rushers in 2014 with Missouri, racking up 22.5 tackles for loss and 14.5 sacks. 

With the Broncos more reliant on their defense than ever with Peyton Manning struggling, Ray's presence and development will go a long way in determining how far they advance in 2015.