Broncos Linebacker Josey Singleton: A Story of Resilience, Advocacy, and Indomitable Spirit
Josey Singleton, a key figure in the Denver Broncos‘ defense, embodies more than just football prowess. His journey, marked by remarkable comebacks from devastating injuries and a recent health scare, is rapidly becoming a powerful testament to courage, proactive health management, and the importance of breaking down stigmas surrounding men’s health.
Singleton went undrafted out of East Carolina University, yet quickly became a cornerstone of the Broncos’ defensive unit. He’s a leader, a fighter, and, as his teammates attest, an inspiration.
A Captain’s example
Defensive coordinator Vance Joseph emphasizes Singleton’s impact extends far beyond the stat sheet. “His example is what carries us and leads us,” joseph stated, highlighting the linebacker’s influence on the entire team.
Singleton’s leadership isn’t just about words; it’s demonstrated through unwavering resilience. Consider his 2024 performance against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
* He played an entire game, racking up 10 tackles.
* He did so after tearing his ACL.
The severity of the injury wasn’t even known until after the final whistle.
Defying the Odds: From ACL Tear to Cancer Diagnosis
Following season-ending surgery for the ACL tear, Singleton returned in 2025 to deliver some of the best football of his career. Through 10 games, he’s amassed an impressive 89 tackles.
This comeback, though, was only the beginning of his incredible story. A failed drug test led to further inquiry, ultimately revealing a cancer diagnosis.Fortunately, pathology reports came back clean, and subsequent testing has been positive. Singleton is now preparing to return to the field against the Commanders.
“Put another tally to his name, just how much of a fighter he is,” said second-year linebacker Levelle Bailey. “Not only as a player, but as a person.”
Teammate Malcolm Roach likened Singleton to Jon Snow from “Game of Thrones,” referencing the character’s resurrection. “Like, he played with an ACL, and then he played with cancer,” Roach explained. “They gon’ write a book on it, and it’s just gonna be a bestseller.”
Championing Men’s health: Breaking the Silence
Singleton isn’t shying away from his experience. Instead, he’s embracing the possibility to advocate for men’s health in a refreshingly candid way. He understands the cultural pressures that frequently enough prevent men from seeking medical attention.
“It’s funny to make jokes about, like, dick and balls, if you can write that,” Singleton quipped with a grin. “But it is. It’s funny. And so, it’s easy to stand somewhere and talk about it.”
He actively encourages others to prioritize their health, even sharing a message with the son of a Broncos executive while in the weight room: “Don’t be afraid to go to the doctor!”
Singleton deliberately chose to make his diagnosis public, recognizing the potential impact. “I think a lot of people look at our sport as a masculine sport,” he explained. “To be able to be a guy that’s like, ‘Hey, I went to the doctor and found this out and got it done, you can too, it’s not the worst thing in the world,’ I think makes a lot of people feel okay to do that.” And, according to his social media, it’s already working.
A Legacy of Perseverance
Singleton’s story extends beyond the professional field. His high school coach, Leiben, has witnessed his unwavering determination firsthand. Leiben, who regularly attends Broncos games, recalls Singleton’s pre-game pep talks.
While he won’t reveal the exact words, the message is consistent: Singleton is “indestructible.”
this sentiment encapsulates the essence of Josey singleton – a player who consistently defies expectations, a leader who inspires through action, and an advocate who is courageously challenging norms. His journey is a powerful reminder that seeking help is a sign of strength, and that even in the face of adversity, resilience can prevail.
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