With a short week ahead and a Christmas Day showdown looming against the Kansas City Chiefs, the Denver Broncos are already feeling the wear and tear from Sunday’s physical matchup with the Jacksonville Jaguars. While the team didn’t hit the field for a full practice on Monday, they did release an estimated injury report - standard procedure for teams preparing for Thursday Night Football.
The Broncos are treating this week more like a series of walkthroughs than full practices, which makes sense given the quick turnaround. But even in a lighter setting, the injury situation is worth watching closely - especially with a divisional rival like Kansas City on deck.
Let’s break down what Denver’s injury report is telling us - and what it could mean for Thursday’s game.
Key Broncos Sidelined (Estimated DNPs)
Four players were listed as non-participants in Monday’s estimated report, and each absence could have ripple effects on both sides of the ball.
- TE Nate Adkins (knee): Adkins has carved out a role as a depth tight end and special teams contributor. While not a focal point of the offense, his absence would thin out the tight end rotation, especially in run-heavy or two-tight end sets.
- LB Dre Greenlaw (hamstring): This one’s significant. Greenlaw has been a key piece in Denver’s linebacker unit. If he’s unable to go Thursday, the Broncos could be down one of their more athletic and instinctive defenders - not ideal when facing a Chiefs offense that thrives on exploiting mismatches in space.
- C Luke Wattenberg (shoulder): Wattenberg’s injury could shake up the offensive line, which has been a stabilizing force for Denver in recent weeks. Continuity is critical up front, and losing your center - even in a short-week scenario - can disrupt timing and protection calls.
- WR Pat Bryant (concussion): Bryant’s in the concussion protocol, and with such a tight window before kickoff, his availability is very much in doubt. He’s been a contributor in the passing game and special teams, so his absence would be felt in both phases.
Full Participants Returning - and That’s Big
The good news for Denver? A few key names are trending in the right direction.
- LB Justin Strnad (foot): After missing all of last week’s practices and sitting out Sunday’s game, Strnad was listed as a full participant. That’s a potential lifeline for the Broncos’ defense, especially if Greenlaw can’t suit up. Strnad brings experience and versatility, and he could be leaned on heavily in coverage assignments.
- CB Riley Moss (ankle): Moss being back at full go is encouraging. The rookie has flashed potential in the secondary, and his return gives Denver more flexibility in how they match up against Kansas City’s receivers.
- LG Ben Powers (biceps): Powers being a full participant is a welcome sight. He’s been a steady presence on the interior offensive line, and his availability helps keep the pocket clean and the run game moving.
- LB Karene Reid (hamstring): Reid’s full participation adds some depth to the linebacker room, which could be critical depending on how Greenlaw’s situation plays out. Reid’s shown flashes as a rotational player and could see increased reps if needed.
What It All Means Heading Into Thursday
With the Chiefs waiting in the wings, every healthy body matters - and Denver’s injury report paints a picture of a team that’s banged up but not broken. The linebacker position is clearly the one to watch, with Greenlaw’s status uncertain and Strnad potentially stepping into a larger role. The offensive line could also be tested if Wattenberg can’t go, although Powers’ return helps soften that blow.
It’s also worth noting that the Broncos are facing one of the league’s most dynamic offenses on a short week - so defensive depth, communication, and fresh legs will be at a premium.
Bottom line: Denver’s walking a tightrope between recovery and readiness. Thursday night in Arrowhead is never easy, and this week, it’s coming with even more physical and logistical challenges. The Broncos will need every ounce of depth and discipline to keep pace with the AFC West leaders.