The announcement came on Saturday, just ahead of their matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders.

Badie sustained a severe back injury during the Broncos' Week 4 victory over the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium. The injury occurred when he was hit by Jets linebacker Quincy Williams, causing a fumble. Following the hit, Badie collapsed and had to be carted off the field. He remained in New York for a thorough medical evaluation and flew home to Denver later the same night on a commercial flight.

Earlier in the week, Broncos head coach Sean Payton hinted at the possibility of Badie being placed on IR, and the decision was finalized with him officially being ruled out for Week 5. The timing is particularly unfortunate, as Badie had shown promise in Week 3 with an impressive nine-carry, 70-yard performance against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

This move marks the second time a Broncos running back has been placed on IR this season, with rookie Audric Estime also sidelined. The duration of Badie's absence remains uncertain, adding to the team's concerns. Head coach Payton has remained tight-lipped about the specifics of the injury.

With Badie out, the Broncos will rely on a trio of running backs: Javonte Williams, Jaleel McLaughlin, and undrafted rookie Blake Watson. Additionally, the team has signed former Miami Dolphins running back Salvon Ahmed to the practice squad, although he has not yet been elevated to the gameday roster.

In a corresponding move, rookie linebacker Levelle Bailey has been elevated to the gameday roster for the second consecutive week. Bailey, who made the initial roster out of training camp before being waived and re-signed to the practice squad, will look to make an impact against the Raiders.

The Broncos are now focused on overcoming these roster challenges as they prepare to face their division rivals, the Raiders. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the team adjusts and performs in the coming weeks.