Before their game against the Kansas City Chiefs on Christmas, the Denver Broncos made six roster moves, including placing starting center Luke Wattenberg on injured reserve.
Wattenberg now has to sit out four game weeks (including the KC game). A best-case scenario could see him return for the AFC Championship game, if the team advances that far.
“We’re just kind of managing the roster,” Broncos coach Sean Payton said when asked about the Wattenberg decision. “He’s right at that mark.”
NFL teams can bring back up to two players from injured reserve during the playoffs. Wattenberg is now one of Denver’s candidates, and running back J.K. Dobbins (foot) could return if the Broncos reach the Super Bowl.
Elsewhere on the injury front, defensive lineman John Franklin-Myers played just 11 snaps last week before exiting the game with hip flexor discomfort. JFM is expected to be ready for Week 18, according to KUSA-TV’s Mike Klis. Meanwhile, outside linebacker Nik Bonitto is wearing a large brace on his right arm, but playing through it.
Denver linebacker Dre Greenlaw (hamstring), tight end Nate Adkins (knee) and wide receiver Pat Bryant (concussion) did not play in Kansas City. The Broncos are scheduled to hold their first practice of the week on Wednesday.
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