In a game that has fans on the edge of their seats, the Denver Broncos will be without cornerback Pat Surtain II due to a concussion. This news comes after Surtain was unable to clear concussion protocol following a head injury in Sunday’s matchup. The absence of Surtain is a blow to the Broncos’ defense, as the young cornerback has shown promise in his rookie season.
Joining Surtain on the sidelines is offensive tackle Alex Palczewski, who is dealing with an ankle injury. Palczewski was limited in practice earlier in the week but was unable to participate on Wednesday, leading to his inactive status for Thursday Night Football. The absence of Palczewski will be felt along the offensive line, as the Broncos look to protect their quarterback against a strong opposing defense.
On a positive note, outside linebacker Baron Browning and tackle Mike McGlinchey have seen improvement in their respective injuries. Both players were upgraded to full participants in practice on Wednesday, raising hopes that they could be activated from injured reserve in time for Thursday’s game. The Broncos will make a game-time decision on Browning and McGlinchey’s availability, as they seek to bolster their roster with key defensive players.
Cornerback Damarri Mathis is another player who could potentially be activated for Thursday’s game, as he was a full participant in practice throughout the week. Mathis, along with Browning and McGlinchey, is listed as questionable for the matchup, leaving the coaching staff with difficult decisions to make regarding their availability.
Injury updates also include cornerbacks Ja’Quan McMillian and Riley Moss, as well as inside linebacker Justin Strnad. McMillian and Moss have fully participated in practice and are no longer on the injury report, providing a boost to the Broncos’ secondary. Strnad, who was dealing with rib issues, has also been a full participant and should be available to contribute on defense.
As the Broncos prepare to take on their opponents in a crucial Thursday Night Football matchup, the status of key players remains uncertain. With a mix of injuries and potential activations, the coaching staff will need to make strategic decisions to field a competitive lineup. The stakes are high as the Broncos look to secure a victory and keep their playoff hopes alive.
