With the AFC Championship showdown between the Denver Broncos and New England Patriots just around the corner, the final injury report has dropped-and it’s packed with implications on both sides of the ball.
Let’s start with the biggest headline for Denver: running back J.K. Dobbins has officially been ruled out.
Head coach Sean Payton had kept things close to the vest earlier in the week, refusing to tip his hand on Dobbins’ status, but now it’s confirmed-he won’t suit up against New England. That’s a tough blow for a Broncos offense that could’ve used his versatility in a game where every yard will matter.
The silver lining? Dobbins was practicing throughout the week in a limited capacity, so if Denver punches its ticket to the Super Bowl, there’s still a chance he could make his postseason debut in the biggest game of the year.
On a more positive note, wide receiver Pat Bryant looks good to go. After entering concussion protocol earlier in the week, Bryant cleared all the necessary steps and practiced fully on both Thursday and Friday.
Payton noted that Bryant had no lingering symptoms the day after the incident, and he’s now sporting an upgraded helmet-likely one of the larger, padded models designed to reduce impact. It’s a smart move, and one that could help keep a rising playmaker on the field when Denver needs him most.
The Broncos will also be without a few other contributors. Rookie quarterback Bo Nix, who’s been dealing with an ankle injury, didn’t practice all week and has been ruled out. Tight end Lucas Krull and linebacker Drew Sanders are also out, both despite logging full practices throughout the week-a clear indication that their injuries aren’t quite game-ready.
Denver’s offensive line depth will be tested as well. Center Luke Wattenberg (shoulder) and rookie Alex Forsyth (ankle) are both questionable, while several others-like Garrett Bradbury (illness) and Frank Crum (ankle)-appear to be trending in the right direction after full practices.
On the Patriots’ side, the loss of outside linebacker Harold Landry looms large. He’s been ruled out with a knee injury after not practicing all week, and that’s a major blow to New England’s pass rush.
Landry leads the team in sacks, and his absence could open the door for Broncos quarterback Jarrett Stidham to operate with a little more comfort in the pocket. That’s especially important given Denver’s uncertainty on the interior offensive line.
Elsewhere for New England, linebacker Marte Mapu (hip) is questionable after returning to limited work on Friday. Tight end Hunter Henry and offensive tackle Morgan Moses were both listed with rest days earlier in the week but practiced fully by Friday and should be good to go. Wide receiver Mack Hollins (abdomen) and running back Terrell Jennings-who cleared concussion protocol-are also questionable, but both practiced fully to close out the week.
All told, both teams are dealing with their fair share of injuries, but the Broncos are navigating the deeper list-especially on offense. Still, with key weapons like Bryant cleared and the potential for improved protection up front, Denver has enough firepower to make things interesting.
The stage is set. The injuries are logged. Now it’s all about who steps up when the lights are brightest.