Butt tears ACL, likely out rest of season

Expected to increase his production as he gets acclimated to the NFL game, Broncos tight end Jake Butt’s season ended Thursday when he sustained a torn left ACL.

Butt sustained the injury during the Broncos’ morning walkthrough per a source. The Denver Post reported midday Thursday that Butt was headed toward an MRI, which confirmed the injury.

In a statement released by the team, coach Vance Joseph said: “Jake has worked his tail off to recover from his previous injuries, and we feel terrible for him. He’s a great kid who’s developed into a very good football player. We have no doubt Jake will come back stronger than ever.”

Butt tore his right ACL twice during his college career at Michigan (2014 and ’16). The second injury occurred in the Wolverines’ Orange Bowl game against Florida State and cost Butt his rookie season with the Broncos.

Butt played 97 snaps in the Broncos’ first three games and is third on the team with eight catches for 85 yards. A solid blocker, Butt would have made his biggest impact as a receiver; he had showed good hands since the start of the offseason program in late May and showed in the regular season he could gain yards after the catch. In the Broncos’ system, Butt also displayed versatility, lining up everywhere from lead blocking back to slot and wide receiver.

The Broncos now have Jeff Heuerman and Matt LaCosse as their remaining healthy tight ends. Brian Parker is on the practice squad and is the likely callup candidate because his knowledge of the offense will make him available Monday night against Kansas City.

Brock sits out.

After practicing Wednesday, cornerback Tramaine Brock (groin) sat out Thursday.

“He just wasn’t feeling to going full speed so being smart with him for one more day and help him get healthy,” Joseph said.

Brock was injured in Sunday’s loss at Baltimore.

Limited were cornerback Adam Jones (thigh), linebacker Brandon Marshall (knee) and defensive lineman Shelby Harris (ankle). Marshall sat out Wednesday.

“One day at a time,” he said. “I don’t know which way it’s going, but I’m trying to get out there.”

Broncos quarterback Case Keenum on his knee injury: “It felt really good (Thursday). It’s getting better every day.”