Brandon Lloyd Injury: How Will Denver Broncos Replace Inactive WR?

Denver Broncos wide receiver Brandon Lloyd was expected to play this week despite battling a groin injury. But Lloyd couldn't get loose during warmups and has been listed as inactive for today's game against the Cincinnati Bengals.

Lloyd is clearly Denver's top target, so several players will have to step up and perform in his absence. The nine-year pro is coming off his best professional season, highlighted by 77 catches for 1,448 yards and 11 touchdowns in 2010. Against the Oakland Raiders in Week 1 the Illinois product led the Broncos with six catches for 89 yards.

In place of the inactive Lloyd, Denver will start second-year receiver Eric Decker opposite Eddie Royal. Decker has been considered by many to be a sleeper candidate for a breakout season, and he caught three passes for 53 yards against the Raiders on Monday night. He has good hands and possesses surprising athleticism.

Royal will be quarterback Kyle Orton's main target today against the Bengals, but he faces a tough one-on-one matchup with cornerback Leon Hall. Decker will see Hall from time to time as well, so don't expect huge numbers out of either guy. Hall is a very solid corner and was an All-Pro pick in 2009.

With Knowshon Moreno out as well, Willis McGahee will step in and start at running back. He will not only have to revive a dormant Broncos running attack that gained just 38 yards in Week 1, but also make himself available as a target out of the backfield.

Fourth-year receiver Matt Willis is likely to see some passes thrown his way in Lloyd's absence as Orton will have to spread the ball around. Tight end Daniel Fells will also have to get himself open today.

All of Denver's other options must step up today with Lloyd out, or it could be a long day in the pocket for Orton.