Denver Broncos defensive end DeMarcus Ware told reporters that it was back spasm that forced him to leave the game against the Oakland Raiders on Sunday, according to Troy Renck of The Denver Post.

Ware says he will be fine, and that his back "locked up" when his foot stuck into the turf.

If Ware's injury is as minor as he says, it will be a major relief to Broncos fans who feared the worst when Ware was carted from the sideline.

The defensive end had his best start to a season in years and his play is a major reason the Broncos' defense has been arguably the best in the league.

Ware has 4.5 sacks and 13 total tackles this season.