Broncos Injury Report: McGlinchey Questionable, Depth to Be Tested vs. Packers
As the Denver Broncos prepare for Sunday’s cross-conference clash with the Green Bay Packers, the final injury report brings a few late-week twists-most notably on the offensive line.
Right Tackle Watch: McGlinchey’s Late Addition Raises Eyebrows
Veteran right tackle Mike McGlinchey was a surprise addition to the injury report Friday after missing practice with a shoulder issue. He’s officially listed as questionable for Sunday, and while late-week injuries are never ideal, the team hasn’t ruled him out just yet. Whether this was a precautionary move or a sign of something more serious remains to be seen, but it’s a situation worth keeping a close eye on.
The timing couldn’t be trickier. If McGlinchey can't go, Denver may be forced to reshuffle an already thin offensive line.
That’s especially concerning with Packers pass rusher Micah Parsons looming. Parsons is the kind of edge threat who can wreck a game plan if a team isn’t solid at the point of attack-and his presence on the right side could expose any cracks in Denver’s protection.
Depth Chart Dominoes: Who Steps In If McGlinchey Sits?
If McGlinchey is sidelined, Denver’s options are limited. Alex Palczewski is listed as the backup right tackle, but he’s currently filling in at left guard after Ben Powers was placed on injured reserve. That means the next man up at tackle could be second-year player Frank Crum, who would be stepping into a high-pressure spot against a playoff-caliber defense.
It’s not the ideal scenario, but it’s also not unfamiliar territory for a Broncos offensive line that’s had to adapt all season long. Crum, if called upon, will need to be ready to handle both the physical challenge and the mental load of facing a disruptive Green Bay front.
Ben Powers Nearing Return, But Not Quite There Yet
There is some good news on the injury front. Left guard Ben Powers returned to practice this week and had his 21-day activation window opened.
While he won’t suit up against the Packers, his return is on the horizon-possibly as soon as next week’s matchup with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Powers’ presence would be a welcome boost for a line that’s been patching holes for weeks.
Other Injury Notes: Bryant Out, Adkins and Jones Cleared
Rookie wideout Pat Bryant has been ruled out with a hamstring injury. It’s another setback for a young receiver group that’s been trying to find consistent rhythm in the passing game.
On the positive side, tight end Nate Adkins (knee) and defensive lineman D.J. Jones (ankle) were both full participants in Friday’s practice and are good to go for Sunday. Jones’ return in particular is a boost for a defensive front that will need to be stout against a Green Bay offense that’s shown flashes of explosiveness.
Veteran Tight End Marcedes Lewis Returns to Practice Squad
In a roster move that adds some veteran stability, the Broncos re-signed tight end Marcedes Lewis to the practice squad after he cleared waivers. While he’s out of elevations and won’t be active Sunday, Lewis still brings value as a mentor to young tight ends like Caleb Lohner and Patrick Murtagh. His leadership in the meeting room and on the practice field continues to be a quiet asset for this team.
Kickoff Info
The Broncos and Packers are set to kick off at 2:25 p.m. MT on CBS. With playoff hopes hanging by a thread, every game matters-and Denver’s ability to adapt in the trenches could be the key to keeping those hopes alive.