September 27, 2018. Broncos tight end Jake Butt was only three games into his return from a second ACL injury — an injury that cost him his entire NFL rookie season — when he went down again, during a walkthrough practice no less.



He knew what it was immediately. The nightmare he experienced twice before resurfaced with a vengeance. He was soon placed on injured reserve, and would again undergo surgery on his left ACL and meniscus.



The frustration the third time around nearly broke him. Multiple times.



“I got a Bible study with my buddies back in high school and I just leaned on them,” he said. “When it happened originally, I called them and we were on the phone for three hours and I don’t think I said a word. I just cried and listen to them try to breathe life into me.



“Injuries are a part of this league, but they’re tough. They’re something you have to deal with and you better have a good...