The Denver Broncos received a notable boost on Wednesday when running back J.K. Dobbins returned to the practice field.
As Broncos Wire noted, this marked an encouraging step as the team prepares for Sunday’s AFC Championship Game against the New England Patriots.
Dobbins was designated to return from injured reserve earlier this week and participated in practice for the first time since November.
He has been officially listed as a limited participant in Wednesday’s practice.
During the media viewing portion, he appeared to be moving smoothly and without hesitation.
Head coach Sean Payton declined to provide clarity on Dobbins’ availability for Sunday, saying simply, “I won’t comment on that,” when asked if the veteran back could play this week.
Still, Dobbins’ presence alone represents a meaningful development and a great sign for a Broncos offense without their starting quarterback.
Will J.K. Dobbins Play on Sunday?
Denver officially opened the 21-day window on Dobbins’ potential return from injured reserve on Monday.
He has not played since suffering a Lisfranc injury in Week 10.
This was an injury that required surgery and sidelined him for the remainder of the regular season.
Wednesday’s practice offered the most important sign yet that Dobbins could be nearing a return.
He appeared to be moving well during individual drills, showing lateral quickness and comfort planting on his surgically repaired foot.
While no determination has been made on whether he will be activated by Saturday’s deadline, more clarity should come from Thursday and Friday’s practices.
His availability would be massive for a Denver team expected to lean heavily on the running game with backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham under center.
Payton acknowledged earlier this week that running back RJ Harvey remains a key part of the offensive plan regardless of Dobbins’ status.
He praised the rookie’s elusiveness by noting he “has that make you miss.”
But Dobbins’ practice progress is an extremely good sign for Denver as it prepares for its biggest game of the season.
Update on Wide Receiver Injuries
The Broncos also received important updates at wide receiver.
Pat Bryant and Troy Franklin were both present at practice just four days after exiting Saturday’s win with injuries.
Bryant, who suffered a concussion, was seen participating during the individual period.
It marked a positive step for the rookie, who has now dealt with two concussions in the past month.
Bryant caught three passes for 32 yards on the first drive before leaving last weekend’s game.
He was targeted on three of the offense’s first four plays before exiting.
Franklin, however, did not appear to be participating in drills despite being on the field, according to reports from practice.
The wideout left Saturday’s game with a hamstring injury and did not return.
As Denver works through its injury report, Dobbins’ return to practice stands out as the most encouraging development.
All eyes will be on the statuses of those three players as the week progresses.
Broncos See Major J.K. Dobbins Development at Wednesday’s Practice