ENGLEWOOD, CO — The Denver Broncos were back on the practice field on Wednesday at the Centura Health Training Center as they shifted their focus on Sunday’s showdown with the New York Jets.
Denver Broncos activate OLB Baron Browning from PUP
Before Wednesday’s practice, the Broncos released veteran pass rusher Randy Gregory. The move came as a surprise initially because he was the starter up until last Sunday’s game against the Chicago Bears.
Gregory was benched in favor of second-year pass rusher Nik Bonitto, who turned in a spectacular game, accounting for 2.5 sacks, four tackles, and one forced fumble.
#BroncosCountry Practice Report – OCT 4:
– #Broncos release OLB Randy Gregory
– Justin Simmons, Frank Clark, Josey Jewell, P.J. Locke, Baron Browning, Mike Purcell return to practice
– Javonte Williams working on team side field on WED
– BAD BLOOD week is here@MileHighSports pic.twitter.com/gdvJYuA128— Cody Roark (@CodyRoarkNFL) October 4, 2023
Despite the report coming out that he’s been released, the Broncos are awaiting to see if a team emerges to trade for him before they officially release him.
“None of it has been finalized yet,” Sean Payton said on Wednesday. “It was something that we felt was just best for our team right now, timing wise. It hasn’t been finalized yet because typically before a transaction takes place, there may be some teams interested in a trade. If any of that came to fruition, we would let you guys know. We felt like with some of our younger players and where we are going, it was best for our team right now.”
Now, the Broncos are getting more help back as the team is planning to activate outside linebacker Baron Browning off of the Physically Unable To Perform (PUP) list, officially opening his 21-day window. He made his return to practice on Wednesday for the first time this season.
Browning underwent knee surgery in the off-season and has been actively ramping things up on the team’s side field in preparation for his return.
“With Baron, he’s got a 21-day window, and we just want to be smart,” Payton said. “These guys have missed a lot of football reps, training camp, et cetera. We’ll go day-by-day. We have some goals, but I’d rather not get into those.”
Justin Simmons and others return to practice
Help could be on the way for the Broncos this week as the team prepares for the New York Jets.
Safety Justin Simmons, inside linebacker Josey Jewell, outside linebacker Frank Clark, and defensive tackle Mike Purcell all returned to practice after missing last Sunday’s game.
The Broncos also saw safety P.J. Locke return to practice for the first time since landing on injured reserve at the beginning of the season.
These players joined outside linebacker Baron Browning as participants in practice on Wednesday.
Players spotted on the side field included running back Javonte Williams, offensive tackle Alex Palczewski, tight end Greg Dulcich, and nickel cornerback K’Waun Williams.
Williams left Sunday’s game vs. the Chicago Bears with a hip injury and did not return.
Broncos official injury report for Wednesday
Following Wednesday’s practice, the Broncos released their official injury report and participation status.
Did Not Participate:
- Running back Javonte Williams – quad.
- Outside linebacker Randy Gregory – NIR (not injury related).
Limited:
- Outside linebacker Baron Browning – knee.
- Outside linebacker Frank Clark – hip.
- Center Lloyd Cushenberry – quad.
- Inside linebacker Josey Jewell – hip.
- Wide receiver Jerry Jeudy – knee.
- Defensive tackle Mike Purcell – ribs.
- Safety Justin Simmons – hip.
Full:
- Safety P.J. Locke – toe.
Overall, the Broncos are making strides getting players back in the injury department.