Broncos' Injury Concerns Grow as Two More Key Players Surface - Sports Illustrated

Broncos’ Injury Concerns Grow as Two More Key Players Surface – Sports Illustrated

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The Denver Broncos are facing a critical health test as they prepare for their Week 8 rematch against the Kansas City Chiefs, with three starters held out of practice and two new names emerging on the injury report. As reported by Sports Illustrated, the team is looking to rebound from a 31-10 loss in their season opener, and a win could give them the lead in the AFC West while complicating their path through a shifting roster status.

Shifting Personnel on the Practice Field

The injury report released on Thursday paints a complex picture for the Broncos’ coaching staff. While two players who missed Wednesday’s session returned to limited participation, the emergence of running back RJ Harvey and safety Brandon Jones as new additions to the report has drawn immediate concern. Both were limited on Thursday, though their status remains fluid ahead of the weekend.

The secondary remains a primary area of focus. Safety Talanoa Hufanga did not participate in practice due to an ankle injury, casting doubt on his availability for Sunday. This leaves the team in a difficult position, as facing a quarterback of Patrick Mahomes’ caliber without a full complement of starting safeties presents a significant defensive challenge. While Devon Key remains healthy and Taylor Rapp has seen increased snaps since Hufanga’s initial injury, the loss of Jones—who is currently enjoying his best season since joining the team in 2024—would be a major blow to the defensive backfield.

Recovery and Depth Considerations

There is some positive momentum among the wounded. Defensive lineman Zach Allen and wide receiver Jaylen Waddle both progressed to limited participation on Thursday after being held out on Wednesday. Both players exited the team’s recent win over the Arizona Cardinals with injuries, and their ability to ramp up activity is a necessary step for their participation in the upcoming divisional clash.

Denver broncos defensive lineman zach allen against the kansas city chiefs in an nfl football game sunday nov in denver photo

The team’s depth will be tested if these players cannot suit up. If Harvey is limited or unavailable, the backfield remains buoyed by the presence of Jonah Coleman, whose versatility as a runner and pass-catcher provides a reliable option, alongside the capable J.K. Dobbins. Meanwhile, cornerback Patrick Surtain II continues to be a full participant, remaining on track for his role in the secondary.

The Stakes at Mile High

This matchup carries significant weight for the AFC West standings. A victory for the Broncos at Mile High would place them at the front of the division, providing a strategic advantage as the season progresses. While the Broncos face a schedule that is statistically more favorable than Kansas City’s remaining path—which includes difficult games against the San Francisco 49ers, Los Angeles Rams, Buffalo Bills, and New England Patriots—the immediate focus remains on the short-term health of the roster.

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The ultimate decision on the lineup will likely come down to the final practice reports on Friday. For a team looking to defend its division title and establish momentum in the second half of the season, the ability to manage these injuries will be just as critical as the game plan itself.

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