Luke Wattenberg has officially returned to the Denver Broncos, while Bo Nix’s season has come to an unfortunate end. The team executed these anticipated roster changes on Saturday, as documented in the league’s transaction wire.
The Broncos placed Nix on injured reserve after he sustained a broken bone in his ankle during the final moments of overtime in a recent game against Buffalo. Nix underwent surgery on Tuesday to address the injury. In a corresponding move, Wattenberg was activated from injured reserve, setting him up to start for the Broncos in their upcoming AFC Championship game against the New England Patriots.
Wattenberg, who signed a four-year contract extension worth $48 million earlier this season, fully participated in practice throughout the week. His return comes as fellow center Alex Forsyth, who has filled in for Wattenberg during his absence, is listed as questionable due to an ankle injury.
The Broncos have anticipated Nix’s placement on injured reserve since his injury occurred, following their usual protocol for such situations.
In other roster news, Denver is elevating veteran wide receivers Michael Bandy and Elijah Moore from the practice squad. Bandy has proven to be a versatile asset for the team, having played multiple receiving positions and even scoring his first career touchdown against Green Bay. Meanwhile, Moore, who was also elevated for the Divisional game against Buffalo but did not see game action, has yet to make his debut for Denver since signing earlier this season, but his speed could prove valuable. With second-year receiver Troy Franklin listed as questionable due to a hamstring issue, Moore could find himself in the mix with established receivers like Courtland Sutton and Marvin Mims Jr.
On the other side of the matchup, the New England Patriots activated wide receiver Mack Hollins from injured reserve and placed defensive tackle Eric Gregory on IR. Additionally, the Patriots announced that defensive tackle Joshua Farmer and running back Terrell Jennings would not make the trip to Denver due to their downgraded statuses.
These roster changes add excitement and intrigue as the Broncos prepare for a crucial game, highlighting the team’s resilience in overcoming injuries.