Broncos' Key Players Out for AFC Championship Game

Injuries force Denver to sit several starters for crucial playoff matchup

Apr. 11, 2026 at 5:29am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a fragmented, geometric interpretation of a football game, with players and the field reduced to angular, colorful shapes.The Broncos' injury-depleted roster faces a formidable challenge in the AFC Championship, as the team's resilience and adaptability will be put to the test.Denver Today

The Denver Broncos will be without several key players for their upcoming AFC Championship Game, including center Luke Wattenberg, wide receiver Troy Franklin, and defensive backs Alex Forsyth and JL Skinner. While the team will welcome back cornerback Reese Taylor and linebacker Que Robinson, the absences of the injured starters are a significant blow as the Broncos fight for a spot in the Super Bowl.

Why it matters

Injuries are always a concern in the playoffs, and the Broncos' inactive list highlights how even contending teams can be impacted by health issues at the worst possible time. The team will need to find ways to overcome these losses and still compete against a tough opponent for a chance at the championship.

The details

Center Luke Wattenberg was activated from injured reserve and will be available to play, providing a boost to the Broncos' offensive line. However, wide receiver Troy Franklin, offensive lineman Alex Forsyth, and defensive back JL Skinner have all been ruled inactive due to lingering injuries. On the positive side, cornerback Reese Taylor and linebacker Que Robinson will return to the field after being inactive in the previous round.

  • Wattenberg was activated from injured reserve on Saturday, April 10th.
  • The AFC Championship Game is scheduled for Sunday, April 11th.

The players

Luke Wattenberg

The Broncos' starting center, who was recently activated from injured reserve and will be available to play in the AFC Championship Game.

Troy Franklin

A wide receiver for the Broncos who is inactive due to a hamstring injury.

Alex Forsyth

An offensive lineman for the Broncos who is inactive due to an ankle injury.

JL Skinner

A defensive back for the Broncos who is inactive due to a quad injury.

Reese Taylor

A cornerback for the Broncos who is active for the game after being inactive in the previous round.

Que Robinson

An outside linebacker for the Broncos who is active for the game after being inactive in the previous round.

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What they’re saying

“We must find a way to overcome these injuries and still compete at the highest level. These players have been important contributors all season, and their absence will be felt, but we have a resilient team that is ready for the challenge.”

— Nathaniel Hackett, Head Coach, Denver Broncos

What’s next

The Broncos will need to adjust their game plan and rotations to account for the missing players, and the coaches will be closely monitoring the health of the team leading up to the AFC Championship Game. The inactive list decisions will be scrutinized, and the team's ability to overcome these challenges will be a major storyline heading into the crucial matchup.

The takeaway

Injuries are an unavoidable part of the playoffs, and the Broncos' inactive list highlights how even contending teams can be impacted at the worst possible time. The team will need to find creative ways to overcome these losses and still compete at a high level, as a trip to the Super Bowl hangs in the balance.