The Denver Broncos released their final injury report before their Thursday Night Football game against the New Orleans Saints in Week 7, and it includes some significant updates. Key starters are either ruled out or questionable, which could impact the team’s chances.
Right tackle Alex Palczewski has been ruled out due to an ankle injury, and star cornerback Pat Surtain will also miss the game as he remains in concussion protocol. With Palczewski sidelined, the Broncos may turn to Mike McGlinchey, who is eligible to return from injured reserve (IR) after an MCL injury, to reclaim his position on the offensive line. Whether McGlinchey will play is still uncertain, as he is listed as questionable but has been progressing well in practice this week.
As for the defensive backfield, Ja’Quan McMillian is expected to start at cornerback opposite Riley Moss, while Levi Wallace will play in the slot, helping cover the gaps left by Surtain’s absence. This makes for a revamped secondary against the Saints, adding pressure on the younger players to step up in a critical matchup.
Several other key Broncos players remain questionable. McGlinchey, as mentioned earlier, along with outside linebacker Baron Browning (foot) and cornerback Damarri Mathis (ankle), are still uncertain for Thursday’s game. Both McGlinchey and Browning were limited in practices earlier this week but showed progress leading up to the game, which leaves room for hope that they could be activated from IR in time to help the team.
The complete injury report also notes that linebacker Justin Strnad (ribs), cornerbacks Ja’Quan McMillian (ankle) and Riley Moss (hip), all participated fully in recent practices and are expected to play. The challenge for Denver’s defense, however, remains significant with the loss of Surtain, arguably their top defensive player.
On the other side, the Saints have their own challenges, with wide receivers Chris Olave (concussion) and Rashid Shaheed (meniscus) officially ruled out. This gives Denver’s defense some relief, as New Orleans will be missing two of its top playmakers in the passing game.
With Denver underdog status going into this game and a weakened roster, particularly in the secondary and offensive line, Thursday’s matchup will be tough. If the Broncos are to compete effectively against New Orleans, they will need strong performances from their depth players and potentially from McGlinchey and Browning if they can return in time.
The injury report reflects the growing adversity for the Broncos as they look to improve upon their season, sitting at a challenging 1-5 record, while preparing for a Saints team that will also be missing key contributors.
