Report: Broncos' Ray likely to return earlier after doctor nixed surgery

Denver Broncos linebacker Shane Ray could be ready for the start of the regular season after a doctor nixed a planned surgery on his ailing wrist, sources told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and James Palmer.

Reports in early June claimed Ray, who was struggling to recover from a previous surgery, required another procedure. However, the doctor slated to operate on Ray determined it was unnecessary, and Ray has been rehabbing ever since.

Had he have gone under the knife, Ray was all but guaranteed to miss the opening portion of the season. He still might have to sit out the beginning of the campaign, but he should return earlier than initially expected.

Ray tore a ligament in his wrist last year and struggled thereafter, managing just one sack in eight outings. He tallied eight sacks in 16 games the year prior.