Jan. 20, 2026, 5:02 a.m. MT
The Denver Broncos have 10 players on injured reserve as they prepare for the AFC Championship game, but reinforcements could be on the way.
Denver running back J.K. Dobbins (foot) was designated to return from IR on Monday, starting his 21-day window be activated to the 53-man roster. Elsewhere, linebacker Drew Sanders (foot) and tight end Lucas Krull (foot) have also been designated to return, and center Luke Wattenberg (shoulder) is a name to watch this week.
Meanwhile, the Broncos have four players — fullback Michael Burton, guard/center Nick Gargiulo, pass rusher Johnny Walker and defensive end Matt Henningsen — on season-ending IR. They are not eligible to play again this season after landing on IR before the initial 53-man roster was set in August.
Broncos season-ending IRFB Michael Burton OL Nick GargiuloOLB Johnny WalkerDE Matt HenningsenNeed a news break? Check out the all new PLAY hub with puzzles, games and more!Broncos return-eligible IRLB Drew Sanders (eligible now)TE Lucas Krull (eligible now)RB J.K. Dobbins (eligible now)C Luke Wattenberg (eligible now)OL Matt Peart (timeline uncertain)DB Brandon Jones (timeline uncertain)
The Broncos have room for up to two more players to be designated to return. Wattenberg might be a candidate to return during the postseason, but Jones is unlikely to return even if Denver reaches the Super Bowl.
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