The Denver Broncos hit the practice field in Week 15 as they prepared to host the Green Bay Packers, and they started encouragingly. Multiple players returned to work, including starting left guard Ben Powers.
Denver is 11-2, and they have overcome injuries at virtually every position group this season.
However, getting players like Powers back into the mix for what the Broncos hope is an extended postseason run would be a boon.
Ben Powers Returns to Broncos Practice
GettyBen Powers #74 of the Denver Broncos blocks against the New Orleans Saints.
Powers is in his third season with the Broncos, and this is his first time missing games as a member of the organization. It might not be in Week 15, but Powers is nearing a return to game action.
“The Broncos designated guard Ben Powers for return from injured reserve, the team announced Wednesday,” DenverBroncos.com’s Aric DiLalla wrote on December 10.
“Powers participated in practice on Wednesday and is eligible to be activated to the Broncos’ 53-man roster at any point in the next 21 days. If he is activated, he is eligible to play as soon as Denver’s Week 15 game against the Packers. Should the Broncos choose not to activate Powers within the next 21 days, he will revert to injured reserve for the rest of the season.”
Due to the long layoff, Powers is not expected to play in Week 15.
“Getting healthier,” 9News’ Mike Klis reported on X on December 10, noting all of the Broncos’ returning players. “Powers 21-day practice window was opened. He’s been out since after week 5 Eagles game. Would doubt he plays vs Packers Sunday.”
Powers’ absence sparked a slew of changes along the Broncos’ offensive line, where his replacement, Matt Peart, also landed on IR after suffering a knee injury.
Since then, the Broncos have leaned on Alex Palczewski, a tackle by trade, at LG.
The Broncos overcame O-line injuries last season, too, when center Luke Wattenberg and right tackle Mike McGlinchey both missed multiple games. This season, Powers has been the lone absence.
Powers was not the only player whose looming return bodes well for the Broncos the rest of the way.
Broncos’ Good News Continues in 1st Practice of Week 15
GettyNate Adkins #45 of the Denver Broncos on the field against the Los Angeles Chargers.
In addition to Powers, defensive tackle D.J. Jones and tight end Nate Adkins also returned to practice for the Broncos, logging even more vigorous sessions. Jones was a full participant, while the Broncos listed Adkins as limited on Wednesday.
Adkins has been sidelined since picking up a knee injury in Week 8 against the Dallas Cowboys, while Jones sat out Week 14 against the Las Vegas Raiders with an ankle issue.
The Broncos are riding a 10-game win streak, proving they can and have overcome adversity.
Still, just as with Powers, getting Adkins and Jones back on the field for game days would only benefit the Broncos for the rest of the regular season and into the playoffs. Jones is a run-stuffer in the middle of a ferocious defensive line. Adkins can play fullback as well as tight end.
The Packers are coming off a big win over the Chicago Bears in Week 14. So, the Broncos need all hands on deck, even if Powers will not yet be among them.
Broncos’ Pat Bryant Works on Side Field During Practice
GettyPat Bryant #13 of the Denver Broncos warms up before facing the Tennessee Titans.
Similar to Powers, Klis reported that Broncos wide receiver “Pat Bryant moved to the side rehab field after walkthrough. He battled a hamstring last week.”
Bryant, an emerging second option behind WR1 Courtland Sutton, officially did not practice.
Having to miss time would be a setback for Bryant, quarterback Bo Nix, and the Broncos. It is encouraging, though, that he was physically present. He also navigated a similar issue in Week 14 and not only played but performed well for head coach Sean Payton and Co.
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