The Denver Broncos picked up a solid 34-26 win over the Green Bay Packers on Sunday, but they did it without a full deck. Eight players didn’t suit up, and one more stayed on the sideline despite being active.
Among the inactives was wide receiver Pat Bryant, who’s nursing a hamstring injury. His absence opened the door for some of the Broncos’ other pass-catchers to shine - and they didn’t disappoint.
Rookie Troy Franklin found the end zone, Lil'Jordan Humphrey added a score of his own, and Michael Bandy got in on the action as well with a touchdown grab. It was a full-team effort in the passing game, with Courtland Sutton once again leading the charge.
Sutton hauled in seven catches for 113 yards and a touchdown, continuing to be the go-to guy for Bo Nix.
Speaking of Nix, the rookie quarterback took every offensive snap, keeping backup Jarrett Stidham on the sidelines despite being active for the game. Sam Ehlinger, the team’s third quarterback, was inactive.
On the defensive side, Denver was also missing a few contributors. Cornerback Reese Taylor, outside linebacker Que Robinson, and defensive linemen Jordan Jackson and Sai'vion Jones were all inactive. Offensive tackle Geron Christian didn’t dress either, trimming the O-line depth for the afternoon.
Here’s the full list of Broncos players who didn’t play against the Packers:
- WR Pat Bryant (hamstring)
- QB Sam Ehlinger
- CB Reese Taylor
- OLB Que Robinson
- OT Geron Christian
- DL Jordan Jackson
- DL Sai'vion Jones
- QB Jarrett Stidham (active, did not play)
Despite the short-handed lineup, Denver’s offense found rhythm, and the defense did enough to hold off a late push from the Packers. The Broncos now turn their attention to a Week 16 matchup at home against the Jacksonville Jaguars, who are coming in hot after a dominant 48-20 win over the New York Jets.
There’s still plenty to sort out as the playoff picture begins to take shape, but if Denver’s depth continues to step up like this, they’ll be a tough out down the stretch.