Broncos to be without RB Young, TE Scheffler

Oct 8, 2008 - 8:36 PM ENGLEWOOD, Colorado (Ticker) -- The Denver Broncos will be missing two offensive starters for Sunday's game against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Coach Mike Shanahan confirmed Wednesday that the Broncos will be without running back Selvin Young and tight end Tony Scheffler, who suffered groin strains in last week's 16-13 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Young is the Broncos' leading rusher with 266 yards and a touchdown on 47 carries, while Scheffler has 16 receptions for 259 yards and two scores.

Young was limited to 16 yards on three attempts against the Buccaneers. His injury likely means more playing time for Michael Pittman, who rushed six times for 39 yards last week and has four touchdowns, the most among Broncos running backs.

"(Pittman) is a tough, hard-nosed runner who made some big plays," Shanahan said. "He ran over some safeties and ran over some corners. Obviously, the better you play, the more time you are going to get."

Wide receiver Eddie Royal twisted an ankle and was on crutches following last week's game, but Shanahan said he expects the rookie standout to play against the Jaguars.

"He is a little sore right now, but he should be ready to go," Shanahan said. "He will probably start practicing (Thursday)."

Royal made a splashy debut with Denver in Week One, making nine receptions for 146 yards and a touchdown. For the season, he has 30 catches for 321 yards and two TDs.