Chad Jackson Signs with Denver Broncos, Denver Still Decimated with Injuries

The Denver Broncos agreed to terms with wide receiver Chad Jackson on Wednesday, and more roster moves are sure to come. 

Denver lost superstar cornerback Champ Bailey for four to six weeks after he suffered a torn groin in Monday night's embarrassing loss against New England. Bailey's injury leaves the Broncos with only three healthy cornerbacks on the roster: Dre Bly, Karl Paymah, and rookie Jack Williams. 

Denver also lost backup quarterback, veteran Patrick Ramsey, who saw action Monday night. Backup offensive tackle Erik Pears had an emergency appendectomy in New England, which will sideline him for a while as well.

Not only did Champ get hurt, but his brother Boss also will miss some time—some time being the rest of the season. The injury to Boss Bailey means more playing time for Jarvis Moss and possibly rookie Wesley Woodyard.

The acquisition of Jackson isn't a surprise to me, because back in the 2006 draft, he was a player the Broncos coveted. The former second-round pick has battled injuries, and was projected by The Sporting News to be the Patriots' breakout player in 2008.  He should see the field against Miami as a kick returner, possibly as a wide receiver.

Denver will probably be making some more roster moves later in the day, which could include some practice-squad promotions.

Quarterback Patrick Ramsey and linebacker Boss Bailey will be put on injured reserve, and the team will most likely cut either Chad Mustard or Glenn Martinez. The spot filled by Jackson leaves Denver with two empty roster spots, one of which will be filled by practice-squad quarterback and fan favorite Darrell Hackney. 

Fans were beckoning for the release of Ramsey in the preseason so Hackney could be the backup quarterback. Let me tell you what: If Cutler does need a replacement, Hackney is best fit to carry the load.

Depending on what the team decides to do with Erik Pears, they will probably look to sign a safety and/or cornerback to fill the other open roster spot. Denver has reportedly contacted Chris Crocker, formerly of the Dolphins, to possibly play some safety. 

Denver has cornerback Josh Bell on its practice squad, but don't expect him to get called up. Names to listen for are safety Josh Barrett, veteran free agent Ty Law, possibly John Lynch, or Andre Woolfolk.