Broncos place S Brandon Jones on IR with pectoral injury, P.J. Locke steps up
The Denver Broncos have placed safety Brandon Jones on injured reserve due to a pectoral injury, impacting their defensive depth as the season winds down.
Why it matters: This injury marks a significant loss for the Broncos, who are already navigating challenges in their secondary.
Jones was the third-leading tackler for the team with 78 tackles and played a crucial role, logging 93% of the defensive snaps this season. His absence not only affects the immediate game strategy but also raises concerns about the team's overall defensive stability as they head into the final stretch of the regular season.
What’s new: The Broncos decision to place Jones on injured reserve comes after he left the game against the Green Bay Packers in the second half and did not return.
- The severity of his injury is still uncertain, and while surgery has not been confirmed, he will miss at least the last three games of the regular season and potentially a playoff game.
- This situation mirrors earlier concerns when star cornerback Pat Surtain II missed three games due to a similar chest injury.
Yes, but: The Broncos might find some solace in the performance of P.J. Locke, who filled in admirably for Jones during the game against the Packers.
- Head coach Sean Payton praised Locke's contributions, stating he had performed "real well," which may help mitigate the impact of losing Jones.
By the numbers: The Broncos have showcased a formidable defense this season, holding opposing quarterbacks to the second-lowest QBR in the league at 48.4.
- They lead the NFL in sacks with a total of 58, demonstrating their ability to pressure the quarterback effectively even amid personnel changes.
- Additionally, the Broncos excel in man coverage, with Riley Moss leading the league with 334 snaps in that category, followed closely by Talanoa Hufanga (315) and Jones (303).
What to watch: As the Broncos approach their remaining regular-season games against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Kansas City Chiefs, and Los Angeles Chargers, how they adjust their defensive scheme without Jones will be critical.
- The coaching staff may need to rely more heavily on players like Locke and rookie cornerback Riley Moss to step up their game.
The bottom line: With Brandon Jones sidelined, the Broncos face a pivotal moment in the season.
- Addressing the gap left by Jones will require strategic adjustments and reliance on depth players, crucial for maintaining their competitive edge as they pursue a playoff berth.
