The Denver Broncos continued to receive encouraging injury news Thursday as they prepare to host the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game.
According to DNVR reporter Zac Stevens, Running back J.K. Dobbins, wide receiver Troy Franklin, and rookie wideout Pat Bryant were all on the practice field for a second straight day.
Pat Bryant was officially listed as a full participant.
Dobbins and Franklin were both officially listed as limited.
This reinforces optimism that Denver’s offense could be close to full strength outside of quarterback Bo Nix.
According to multiple reports from Thursday’s session, every member of the Broncos’ active roster, except Nix, participated in practice.
J.K. Dobbins Trending Toward Possible Return
Dobbins remains on injured reserve, but his continued participation in practice is a significant step forward.
The veteran running back has been sidelined since suffering a foot injury in Week 10.
This injury required surgery and initially cast doubt on his postseason availability.
Denver opened Dobbins’ 21-day practice window earlier this week, and he has now practiced on both Wednesday and Thursday.
Broncos Wire’s Jon Heath described Dobbins as “trending in the right direction.”
The team still must make a decision by Saturday afternoon whether to activate him from IR ahead of Sunday’s game.
If cleared, Dobbins would provide a major boost for a Denver offense expected to lean heavily on the running game with Jarrett Stidham under center.
Troy Franklin, Pat Bryant Show Encouraging Signs
Franklin and Bryant also continued progressing through their respective injuries.
Franklin, who has been dealing with a hamstring issue, was listed as a limited participant today but does not currently carry an official game designation.
During Thursday’s practice, he took part in drills, with multiple reports noting his hamstring appeared much improved.
Franklin enters the AFC Championship with 65 receptions for 709 yards and six touchdowns on the season.
Bryant, meanwhile, continues to work through concussion protocol.
He was listed as a full participant on Thursday and was spotted wearing a Guardian cap during practice.
This is a common precaution for players returning from head injuries.
Both players practicing for a second straight day is a very encouraging sign that they have a real chance to play on Sunday.
Final injury designations will come on Friday.
With Dobbins, Franklin, and Bryant all trending in the right direction, Denver could have all of its offensive weapons available to support Jarrett Stidham in the biggest start of his NFL career.
When asked Thursday about his confidence in Jarrett Stidham, Broncos offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi gave high praise.
Lombardi said Stidham was “outstanding” throughout camp and in the opportunities he’s had since, adding that he’s “excited to watch him play” on Sunday.
Players and coaches have made it clear they trust Stidham to lead the offense on the biggest stage.
Broncos Get Encouraging News on Three Key Offensive Players