Broncos to Reinstate Key Players for Thursday Night Game Against Saints

The Denver Broncos will have two key players returning from injury for their Thursday Night Football game against the New Orleans Saints, according to reports from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and Jane Slater. The team’s edge rusher Baron Browning and right tackle Mike McGlinchey are being activated from the injured reserve list to the active roster for tonight’s matchup.

Jane Slater took to Twitter to confirm the news, stating, “#Broncos OLB Baron Browning and RT Mike McGlinchey, both of whom were designated to return off IR, are expected to be activated to the 53-man roster and play tonight.” As the Broncos have opened two roster spots earlier this week, both Browning and McGlinchey were designated to return to practice, paving the way for their activation.

Browning was sidelined since Week Two after sustaining an injury and is recognized as one of the Broncos’ premier pass rushers. His return is expected to bolster the defense’s performance under the guidance of defensive coordinator Vance Joseph, especially with their opponent’s rookie quarterback Spencer Rattler only making his second career start and missing his top two receivers.

Right tackle Mike McGlinchey, who has struggled particularly with pass protection this season, offers stability to a line that had seen three different starters in his absence. Alex Palczewski, who stepped in for McGlinchey, suffered an ankle injury last week, leaving Matt Peart to take the position temporarily. McGlinchey’s return is anticipated to aid the Broncos’ running game; a strategy that proved successful for the Broncos’ last opponent against the Saints.

The Broncos’ cornerback Mathis also adds depth to the secondary with Pat Surtain II out due to a concussion. While Levi Wallace is projected to start in Surtain’s place, Mathis provides additional support. The return of these players aims to strengthen the Broncos’ roster as they seek to avenge their recent loss to the Los Angeles Chargers and aim to improve their record to 4-3 with a win tonight.