Denver Broncos running back Theo Riddick sidelined 6-8 weeks with shoulder injury

In late July, the Detroit Lions made the interesting decision to move on from established pass-catcher Theo Riddick and the veteran running back wasn't out of work for long. Just a few days later, Riddick inked a contract with the Denver Broncos to provide depth and security of the backfield but, after he appeared in only six snaps during Thursday's preseason loss to the Seattle Seahawks, Riddick won't be on the field for a while.

Mike Klis of 9News in Denver brings word that Riddick suffered a "slight fracture" in his shoulder that will keep him on the sideline for 6-8 weeks. If that timetable holds, Riddick will miss only a small handful of regular season games and, as such, Denver appears likely to keep him on the 53-man roster, rather than using other roster measures to replace him. 

At this stage, the six-year veteran isn't a dynamic option in the running game, but he has produced 285 catches for 2,238 yards in his career and Riddick's departure, at least in the near term, should create a clearer path to playing time for Devontae Booker. At the top of the depth chart, Phillip Lindsay and Royce Freeman are battling for primary work and, while Riddick isn't a factor in that head-to-head battle, his absence could have a ripple effect. 

The Broncos open the regular season on Monday, Sept. 9 with a high-profile tilt against the Oakland Raiders and, barring an unforeseen change in circumstance, Riddick won't be available. Denver's status as an 80-1 longshot to win the Super Bowl, however, isn't likely to shift as a result of what projects to be a short-term injury.