ENGLEWOOD, Colo., Nov. 20 (UPI) -- A torn pectoral muscle has ended the season of rookie linebacker Terry Pierce of the Denver Broncos, who has been placed on injured reserve.
Pierce was injured in Sunday's 37-8 rout of San Diego while making a tackle on kickoff coverage.
"It's about a six to seven week injury, so unfortunately, we lost another linebacker," said Coach Mike Shanahan, who already have Ian Gold and John Mobley on IR. "I don't think I've ever seen a position where I've put three guys on injured reserve before. Johnny Rutledge, the linebacker we signed last week, will be indoctrinated a little quicker than we thought."
Pierce's loss means the Broncos have only three rookies on their 53-man roster: running back Quentin Griffin, tackle George Foster, and wide receiver Adrian Madise.
Also, linebacker Donnie Spragan, a former practice squad member, played though a foot injury against the Chargers and will not be 100 percent Sunday against the Chicago Bears.
