The Denver Broncos are placing quarterback Joe Flacco on injured reserve, multiple media outlets reported on Friday.
Flacco was expected to be out four to six weeks with a herniated cervical disk in his neck, according to a report by ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Brandon Allen, who was claimed off waivers on Sept. 1 from the Los Angeles Rams, will make his NFL debut for the Broncos (2-6) on Sunday against the visiting Cleveland Browns (2-5).
Denver is expected to promote fellow quarterback Brett Rypien from the practice squad to back up Allen.
Flacco, who was a former Super Bowl Most Valuable Player, completed 171 of 262 passes for 1,822 yards with six touchdowns and five interceptions this season.
The 34-year-old has thrown for 40,067 yards with 218 touchdowns and 141 interceptions in 171 career games with the Baltimore Ravens and Broncos.