The Denver Broncos chances of stopping the surging San Diego Chargers took a hit Sunday morning, as James Palmer is reporting that cornerback Aqib Talib will not play because of a back injury.
Broncos CB Aqib Talib (back) will not play today vs the Chargers, per source.
— James Palmer (@JamesPalmerTV) October 30, 2016
Talib practiced just one day this week, limited action on Friday, and was listed as questionable on the final practice participation report.
Denver was already going to be shorthanded with the loss of running back C.J. Anderson, who was placed on injured reserve after surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his knee. Denver activated Juwan Thompson from the practice squad on Saturday.
Talib made four tackles and had three passes defended in a Monday Night Football win over the Texans when the injury occurred.
Talib’s absence will test Denver’s depth against a versatile passing game for San Diego. In their first meeting two weeks ago, Denver held Chargers wide receivers mostly in check but struggled to defend tight end Hunter Henry.
Also listed as questionable on Friday’s practice participation report were inside linebacker Brandon Marshall (hamstring), center Matt Paradis (hip) and outside linebacker DeMarcus Ware (forearm). It would be a major blow to Denver if either Marshall or Paradis could not go. Ware is still trying to return from a broken arm suffered in Week 2 against Indianapolis.