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According to a report from Mike Klis of 9News, the Denver Broncos are optimistic that wide receiver Pat Bryant did not sustain a season-ending injury to his ankle during Sunday's game. Official confirmation will not be available until after Bryant undergoes an MRI on Monday.
Klis notes that Bryant might be sidelined for a period, but the Broncos are hopeful he will be able to return later in the season. Additionally, the early indications for cornerback Pat Surtain, who is also dealing with an ankle issue, are encouraging.
Bryant, 23, was injured after making a 30-yard catch in the third quarter, which was his third reception of the game. He was subsequently carted off the field, leaving Denver with Jaylen Waddle, Courtland Sutton, Troy Franklin, and Marvin Mims as the four healthy receivers against the San Francisco 49ers. The team also has four receivers on the practice squad.
Quarterback Bo Nix commented on Bryant's situation after the game, saying, "Hopefully it's not too bad and, you know, we'll get him back sooner rather than later. But I know he'll be, you know, aggressive in rehab and I know he wants to be back out there with us."
Bryant was selected by the Broncos in the third round of last year's NFL draft out of Illinois. As a rookie, he recorded 31 receptions for 378 yards and a touchdown in 15 games, despite suffering two concussions during the season. His nine targets through the first three games of the 2026 season ranked fourth on the team.
Key Analysis
The potential absence of Bryant would test Denver's receiving depth, but the team has capable options in Waddle, Sutton, Franklin, and Mims. The positive early reports on both Bryant and Surtain offer a glimmer of hope for a Broncos squad looking to maintain its momentum.
Originally reported by yahoo.