Broncos LB DeMarcus Ware returns, sparks Denver’s defense

The Denver Broncos defense was the main reason why they beat the San Diego Chargers on Sunday. They put opposing quarterback Philip Rivers under duress early and often.

Rivers was sacked four times by the Broncos, and the pass rushers helped the secondary pick off the veteran quarterback three times despite the absence of starting cornerback Aqib Talib.

And the return of DeMarcus Ware played a key role in motivating his defensive teammates.

Ware went down in Week 2 against the Indianapolis Colts with an ulnar fracture, which required surgery. Early reports indicated that he would be back for the Week 9 game against the Oakland Raiders, but Ware was able to stay ahead of schedule in his recovery.

“My arm felt really good. I think I just have to get used to doing a lot of my power moves again, getting my strength back. From a pain standpoint, it felt really good.” Ware said after the game.

The return of linebacker Ware helped spark the team defensively, even though he was only on the field as a part-time player.

Second-year player Shane Ray has been starting for the Broncos at outside linebacker with Ware out of the lineup. Ray is playing at a high level, and there was no need to rush Ware back from this injury.

Now with Ware healthy enough to play, the team can afford to ease him into action.

Ware was supposed to play on only certain third downs, but that wasn’t the case.

“I am only supposed to play third down, and there was a couple plays guys started talking trash, and I was like, ‘Well, then I guess I need to stay out here and take the trash out,’” Ware said. “That’s how I felt. I stayed out there a couple plays, and we were able to get a big stop on the goal line.”

Linebacker Von Miller, who grew up idolizing Ware, said he was elated to have his teammate and mentor back on the field.

“It’s like he never missed a step,” Miller said.

“It was great. There is so much stuff that I can say about DeMarcus. It’s a true blessing having him here.” Miller added. “He leads by example; you break your arm and you come back and you’re still able to make plays. That speaks volumes to me … and all the other guys on our team. He’s a living legend for us, and I’m just truly blessed to have him on our team.”

Ware ended the game against the Chargers with one quarterback hit and one pass defensed. As he gets healthier and gets his feet back under him as a pass rusher, Ware’s numbers — and impact — should improve.