Broncos vs. Patriots injury report: Latest on J.K. Dobbins, Bo Nix and more

The Denver Broncos and New England Patriots are set to meet in the AFC Championship Game and injuries could play a big role in how this high-stakes clash unfolds. Both teams are dealing with key players concerns, including Bo Nix, J.K. Dobbins, and other players.

Here is the latest injury update from both sides ahead of the weekend showdown.

Denver Broncos injury report

The biggest blow for Denver came in the divisional round win over the Buffalo Bills. Starting quarterback Bo Nix fractured his right ankle late in overtime and will miss the rest of the postseason.



Head coach Sean Payton confirmed that Nix will undergo surgery and is expected to be ready for the start of the 2026 season, but his playoff run is officially over. Nix finished the Bills game despite the injury and helped guide Denver to a dramatic victory, but now the Broncos must move forward without their leader.

Jarrett Stidham will start against the Patriots. The veteran has limited recent game action and has not thrown a regular-season pass since 2023. Sam Ehlinger will serve as the backup, with Ben DiNucci added to the practice squad for depth.



The Broncos’ star RB J.K. Dobbins has been on injured reserve with a foot injury, and he was also seen doing rehab work last week. So there is growing hope that he could return in time for the AFC Championship.

Coach Payton earlier hinted that the Super Bowl was the best-case target, but recent comments suggest Dobbins might have a chance to play this week if he can return to practice.

Broncos is also monitoring several other injuries:

• Pat Bryant (WR) - Out with a concussion after leaving early against Buffalo. His status remains unclear.
• Troy Franklin (WR) - Suffered a hamstring injury and will be evaluated this week.
• Alex Forsyth (C) - Left with an ankle injury and is questionable.
• Luke Wattenberg (C) - On injured reserve with a shoulder issue but could be activated if healthy.

New England Patriots injury report

New England also has concerns on defense. Cornerback Carlton Davis left the divisional round win over the Texans with a head injury after recording two interceptions.



The Patriots listed him as out late in the game, and his status for the AFC Championship remains uncertain. Davis has been one of New England’s most important defenders this season, and his absence would be a major loss against Denver’s passing attack.

On offense, the Patriots remain mostly healthy, though the backfield situation continues to be closely watched. Rookie TreVeyon Henderson struggled in the playoffs, while Rhamondre Stevenson has taken over as the lead runner.



With Bo Nix out and J.K. Dobbins is still a question mark, Denver may lean heavily on its defense and running game. New England, meanwhile, will hope Carlton Davis clears concussion protocol in time.

As kickoff approaches on Wednesday’s and Thursday’s injury reports will be crucial in shaping the final picture. One thing is certain that health of these players could decide who reaches the Super Bowl.



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