Broncos Have Injury Problems

Offensive tackle Gary Zimmerman of the Denver Broncos, an 11-year veteran who has played in 166 consecutive games, has an injured shoulder and may not play at New England on Sunday.

And a rib injury may sideline cornerback Randy Hilliard, who has been filling in for Lionel Washington. Washington sat out the last two games because of a torn medial collateral ligament in his left knee, although he is scheduled to resume practicing this week.

Quarterback John Elway, who played on Sunday despite a strained left hamstring, did no further damage to the muscle.

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The Seattle Seahawks, who at one time expressed interest in signing free-agent quarterback Jeff George, are now more interested in trying to sign John Friez to a long-term contract.

“The way John’s playing, obviously there’s a tremendous interest in taking a serious look in keeping John here with our franchise as the quarterback for awhile,” Coach Dennis Erickson said.

Friesz, who started the season as Rick Mirer’s backup, has led the Seahawks to three consecutive victories.