With the AFC Championship Game looming, the Denver Broncos are inching closer to full strength - though not without a few lingering questions on the injury front. Thursday’s practice report brought mostly encouraging news, especially at wide receiver, where rookie Pat Bryant took a key step forward.
Bryant Clears a Hurdle
After being limited earlier in the week with a concussion, Bryant was a full participant on Thursday - a strong sign that he’s trending toward suiting up against the New England Patriots. The Broncos have leaned on their young receiving corps throughout the season, and Bryant’s availability could be a quiet X-factor come Sunday. He brings speed and vertical threat potential, and with the Patriots' secondary nursing a few dings of its own, his presence could stretch the field in key moments.
Dobbins Still Limited, But Trending Up
Running back J.K. Dobbins remains limited with a foot injury for the second straight day, but there’s optimism around his status.
The Broncos have been cautious with Dobbins all year, and for good reason - when healthy, he’s a difference-maker. His ability to cut on a dime and find daylight between the tackles adds a dynamic element to Denver’s ground game.
If he’s able to go, even in a rotational role, it would give the offense a much-needed boost against a stout Patriots front.
O-Line Getting Healthier
Center Luke Wattenberg logged his second consecutive full practice, a promising sign for Denver’s interior line. With Alex Forsyth still limited due to an ankle injury, Wattenberg’s return to form couldn’t come at a better time. Protecting the pocket and establishing the run game will be critical against a Patriots defense that thrives on disruption.
Forsyth, along with wide receiver Troy Franklin - who’s dealing with a hamstring issue - remained limited. Both players will be worth watching as the week progresses. Franklin in particular has emerged as a reliable target, and his availability could help offset the absence of quarterback Bo Nix.
Nix Officially Out
Speaking of Nix, the rookie quarterback remains sidelined following ankle surgery and is expected to be placed on injured reserve in the coming days. While his long-term outlook remains positive - the team is hopeful he’ll be 100% by training camp - his absence leaves the Broncos leaning on their backup plan during the franchise’s most important game in years.
Patriots’ Side of the Report
Over in New England, the Patriots are managing their own injury list. Defensive lineman Joshua Farmer, running backs TreVeyon Henderson and Terrell Jennings, and linebacker Robert Spillane were all full participants again on Thursday. That’s good news for a defense that thrives on physicality and depth.
Cornerback Carlton Davis III and linebacker Christian Elliss were limited for the second straight day, while tight end Hunter Henry and tackle Morgan Moses were also limited - though both are listed as “not injury related,” indicating veteran rest days.
The more concerning notes for New England? Center Garrett Bradbury missed practice with an illness, and linebackers Harold Landry and Marte Mapu both sat out due to knee and hip injuries, respectively. If any of those absences linger into the weekend, it could test the Patriots’ depth, particularly in the middle of the field.
The Bigger Picture
This time of year, every rep matters - and so does every body. Both teams are managing injuries with the high stakes of a conference title game on the line.
For Denver, the return of players like Bryant and Wattenberg could tip the scales, especially if Dobbins is able to contribute. For New England, keeping their defensive core intact will be key to slowing down a Broncos offense that, even without Nix, has shown it can move the ball.
We’ll keep an eye on Friday’s final injury designations, but for now, the arrow is pointing up for Denver - and the chess match continues as both teams prepare for Sunday’s showdown.