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Denver Broncos enter their Week 16 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars in relatively stable health, a welcome development as the regular season edges closer to its conclusion.
While injuries have tested roster depth at various points this year, Denver’s latest report suggests the team will field most of its core contributors on Sunday, with only one confirmed absence casting a shadow over the defensive unit.
Justin Strnad ruled out for Week 16
The most notable name on the injury report is inside linebacker Justin Strnad. Dealing with a foot injury, Strnad has officially been ruled out of the Jaguars game.
His absence leaves a gap in Denver’s linebacker rotation, especially in sub-packages where his versatility has been valuable.
Strnad’s situation could extend beyond a single week. There is growing consideration within the organization that he could be placed on injured reserve, a move that would sideline him for an extended period but also create a much-needed roster spot.
Any such decision would significantly influence how the Denver Broncos manage their linebacker depth heading into the final stretch of the season.
Karene Reid’s return could reshape the linebacker group
If Strnad does land on injured reserve, the Broncos would have the option to activate linebacker Karene Reid, who has been recovering from a hamstring injury.
Reid returned to practice this week and is now eligible to come off IR, making him a potential reinforcement ahead of Sunday’s contest.
Should neither move be finalized before kickoff, Denver would rely on its remaining healthy linebackers on the active roster: Dre Greenlaw, Alex Singleton, and Jordan Turner.
Depth options are limited, though the team does have Levelle Bailey available on the practice squad if additional support is required.
Offensive skill players cleared to play
On the positive side of the injury report, the Broncos received encouraging news regarding two offensive contributors. Running back RJ Harvey, who had been managing a ribs issue, has been cleared to play. His availability provides Denver Broncos with added flexibility in the backfield, particularly in pass protection and rotational snaps.
Wide receiver Pat Bryant is also set to suit up after recovering from a hamstring injury. His return bolsters a receiving corps that has dealt with inconsistency and minor injuries throughout the season, offering another reliable option in the passing game against Jacksonville’s secondary.
Ben Powers’ status worth monitoring
Along the offensive line, guard Ben Powers remains a key name to watch. Powers is eligible to return from injured reserve after recovering from a biceps injury and is currently listed as questionable.
Denver Broncos have an open roster spot following the waiver of guard Calvin Throckmorton, making an activation logistically straightforward if the coaching staff feels Powers is ready.
If either Powers or Reid is activated in time for the Jaguars game, the corresponding roster move is expected to occur shortly before kickoff.
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