The Denver Broncos are rolling into Week 5 against the Los Angeles Chargers without both of their starting cornerbacks, Pat Surtain II and Riley Moss. That’s a brutal hit to any defense, and it means their secondary is going to be under serious pressure today. Adding to that, backup DL Jordan Jackson is inactive, with Sai’vion Jones getting the nod instead.
Broncos’ Backfield Blues and Beyond
When you lose two starting corners, you know things are about to get real stressful for your defense. Surtain II and Moss being out is a massive blow, period. But it’s not just the defensive backfield feeling the pain. The Broncos’ inactive list also includes quarterback Sam Ehlinger, tight end Dallen Bentley, offensive lineman Kage Casey, and defensive lineman Tyler Onyedim. This really stretches their depth and could make for a long day if the backups aren’t ready to step up big. You gotta wonder how defensive coordinator plans to scheme around losing your top two guys on the outside. It’s a huge challenge, no doubt about it.
Chargers Are Limping Too, Maybe That Evens It Out?
Now, before you completely write off the Broncos, hold up. The Chargers are coming into this matchup with their own laundry list of injuries, especially on the offensive side of the ball. They’re down two starting offensive linemen, Kayode Awosika and Joe Alt, which is a massive hit to their blocking and run game. Plus, wide receiver Quentin Johnston is out, although Ladd McConkey will be active despite Adam Schefter reporting he’s not expected to play any meaningful snaps. So, while they avoided losing both McConkey and Johnston, their receiving corps isn’t exactly at full strength either.
Beyond the offense, the Chargers are also missing a “slew” of defensive backs, with safety Derwin James, cornerback Rodney Shelley, and cornerback Donte Jackson all inactive, along with wide receiver Brenen Thompson. Their injury report was definitely lengthy. The source even notes that facing a Chargers team down a lot of offensive starters “should even out the playing field a bit today,” despite Denver’s own defensive issues. It sounds like we’re set for a game where both teams are just trying to survive the injury bug.
This Week 5 showdown is going to be wild. Both sides are absolutely battered, and it’s going to come down to which team’s backups and walking wounded can step up and make plays. Keep an eye on those trenches: with both teams missing significant offensive and defensive linemen, that’s where this game could really be decided. Let’s see who’s got the grit to pull out a win.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Mile High Report.
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