Broncos Activate Rookie DE Sai’vion Jones Ahead of Raiders Clash, Marcedes Lewis Returns to Lineup
LAS VEGAS - The Denver Broncos are rolling into Sunday’s matchup against the Raiders with a nine-game win streak and a defense that’s been one of the league’s most consistent units over that stretch. Now, they’re adding another piece back into the mix. Rookie defensive end Sai’vion Jones is officially active for the first time since Week 4, stepping in as Denver looks to keep its momentum alive.
Jones, a third-round pick from last April’s draft - the same round that produced wide receiver Pat Bryant - gets the call after veteran defensive lineman D.J. Jones was ruled out with an ankle injury sustained late in last week’s win over Washington. With D.J. unavailable, the Broncos had a choice to make on the defensive front, and they opted for the rookie over Jordan Jackson, a veteran who saw early-season action but has been inactive since Malcolm Roach returned to the 53-man roster.
This will be a big opportunity for Sai’vion Jones, who’s been inactive for most of the season. He brings length, athleticism, and fresh legs to a Denver front that’s been grinding through a physical stretch of the schedule. While he’s still raw, the Broncos clearly see enough upside to trust him in a divisional game with playoff implications.
Broncos Inactives for Week 14
Here’s who won’t be suiting up against the Raiders:
- TE Nate Adkins
- OT Geron Christian
- DL D.J. Jones
- DE Sai’vion Jones
- Edge Que Robinson
- CB Reese Taylor
Yes, Sai’vion Jones is technically listed as inactive here, but that’s because the team made a late-week decision to activate him due to D.J. Jones’ injury. It’s a bit of roster maneuvering that shows how fluid these decisions can be, especially with injuries piling up late in the season.
Marcedes Lewis Back in Uniform
Another familiar name returns to the field this week: veteran tight end Marcedes Lewis. The Broncos promoted the 39-year-old to the 53-man roster on Saturday after previously using up all three of his practice-squad elevations. Lewis didn’t play last week in Washington, but he’s back now, giving Denver a trio of tight ends available for Sunday’s game.
That depth is especially important with Nate Adkins still sidelined. The rookie tight end hasn’t practiced since suffering a knee injury on October 26 against the Cowboys. With Adkins out, Lewis brings a steady veteran presence - especially in the run game, where his blocking remains top-tier even in Year 18.
Practice Squad Moves
Rookie inside linebacker Jordan Taylor also received a practice-squad elevation for the game, marking his third and final allowable elevation for the season. Taylor’s been a core special teamer when active and continues to earn trust from the coaching staff.
Looking Back at the Roster Trends
If you’ve been tracking the Broncos’ weekly inactives, you’ll notice a few consistent names. Sai’vion Jones has been inactive in eight games this season, often alongside edge rusher Que Robinson and running back Jaleel McLaughlin. Meanwhile, Jordan Jackson had a run of games early but has been on the shelf since Roach’s return.
The tight end room has also seen its share of movement. Nate Adkins has missed multiple games since his injury, while Marcedes Lewis has bounced between the practice squad and active roster until this week’s full promotion. The Broncos have leaned on their depth across the board, and that flexibility has paid off during their current win streak.
What It All Means
With the playoffs in sight and the team riding high, the Broncos are managing their roster with precision. Getting Sai’vion Jones back into the fold gives the defensive line a fresh option, especially with D.J.
Jones out. Marcedes Lewis adds experience and blocking toughness to a tight end group that’s been thin in recent weeks.
And with Jordan Taylor hitting his elevation limit, Denver may soon have a decision to make on whether to sign him to the 53-man roster.
This is the time of year when depth matters most. The Broncos are showing they’ve built a roster that can weather injuries and still field a competitive, well-balanced team. With a chance to extend their win streak to double digits, every roster move counts - and Sunday’s lineup reflects a team that’s ready for the stretch run.