The Denver Broncos are facing a major setback ahead of their Week 7 matchup against the New York Giants, as six key players have been officially ruled out due to injuries. With both offensive and defensive depth charts taking significant hits, Head Coach Sean Payton and his staff will need to make quick adjustments to keep the team competitive.
The most painful losses come on the offensive line. Starting left guard Ben Powers underwent surgery for a torn biceps earlier this month and has been placed on injured reserve. His absence leaves a major gap in protecting the quarterback and supporting the running game. Making matters worse, Matt Peart, who had been filling in for Powers, suffered a knee injury during practice and will also miss extended time. Losing two experienced linemen just days before facing a physical Giants defensive front puts Denver’s offense in a difficult position.
On the defensive side, the situation is equally concerning. Jonah Elliss, the promising rookie linebacker, has been ruled out with a shoulder injury after missing all week of practice. Veteran linebacker Dre Greenlaw, who was recently designated to return from injured reserve, has not fully recovered from his quad issue and will remain inactive. Additionally, Jonathon Cooper, a key edge rusher, has been sidelined with a quadriceps injury, and defensive back Delarrin Turner-Yell has been ruled out with a hamstring problem.
These injuries leave Denver’s defense short-handed against a Giants offense known for its mobility and heavy use of short-yardage plays. The Broncos will likely rely more on young and less experienced defenders such as Baron Browning and Nik Bonitto to fill the gaps.
Head Coach Sean Payton addressed the team’s situation in his Thursday press conference, expressing both concern and confidence:
“We’re obviously facing some adversity right now, but that’s part of this league. Every season tests your depth and resilience. We believe in our guys and we’ll be ready to compete.”
Quarterback Russell Wilson also commented on the loss of his starting linemen, saying that the offense must stay adaptable and trust the replacements stepping in. “Ben and Matt are warriors,” Wilson said. “We’ll play for them. Our job doesn’t change — protect, execute, and find ways to win.”
The Broncos’ offensive adjustments are expected to focus on quicker passing plays, designed rollouts, and additional tight-end blocking to minimize pressure from the Giants’ front seven. Meanwhile, on defense, Denver will likely rotate its linebackers frequently and emphasize zone coverage to protect against the Giants’ fast-paced offense.
For fans, the news is concerning as Denver continues to battle through a tough stretch of the season. After a slow start, the team has shown flashes of improvement, but maintaining momentum without six starters will be a significant challenge.
Still, the Broncos have developed a reputation for grit and perseverance under Payton’s leadership. The organization remains hopeful that several of these injured players will return within the next few weeks. Until then, it’s “next man up” — and the Broncos will look to prove that heart and determination can overcome even the toughest setbacks.
Despite the adversity, the upcoming matchup against the Giants will serve as a true test of Denver’s depth, discipline, and drive to stay alive in the playoff race.
