Broncos Center Wattenberg to IR with Shoulder Injury

Wattenberg’s Impact and Recent Extension

Wattenberg’s performance this season earned him a four-year, $48 million contract extension in late November, a testament to his growth and reliability snapping the ball to quarterback Bo Nix. According to Pro Football Focus, he’s yielded a mere 13 pressures across 1,006 pass-blocking snaps, demonstrating a marked improvement in his technique and consistency. His development as a run blocker was particularly noticeable following focused coaching from assistant offensive-line coach Chris Morgan.

Head coach Sean Payton emphasized the importance of retaining quality players at key positions, stating, “Good, young player, and it’s important to keep those guys in your building. I’ve been in the position where you are trying to draft a center and it’s one of those unique positions. If you say in the draft, ‘We’re going to draft a center that we feel like can start Year 1,’ that becomes difficult.”

Forsyth Steps In: A Familiar Face Under Pressure

With Wattenberg sidelined, the Broncos will turn to Alex Forsyth, a seventh-round pick from the 2023 draft, to fill the center position. Forsyth isn’t a stranger to the role, having started four games last season when Wattenberg previously landed on injured reserve. However, his previous experience at Arrowhead Stadium carries a weight of its own. He faced significant challenges in Kansas City in November 2024, notably being targeted on a game-winning field goal block attempt.

Do you think Forsyth can overcome that previous experience and provide stability at center during this critical playoff push?

To bolster the center position, Denver has also promoted veteran Calvin Throckmorton from the practice squad to the active 53-man roster.

Additional Roster Moves to Address Injury Concerns

The Broncos’ injury woes extend beyond the offensive line. Tight end Nate Adkins’ recurring knee issues prompted the re-signing of 41-year-old veteran Marcedes Lewis to the active roster on Christmas Day. Lewis, initially brought in for blocking support in late October, has remained a valuable presence on the practice squad and is expected to contribute significantly, particularly with Adkins’ uncertain status.

Denver waived running back Cody Schrader to create space for Lewis. Further adjustments were made with the elevation of veteran receiver Michael Bandy and linebacker Levelle Bailey from the practice squad. Rookie receiver Pat Bryant (concussion) and starting inside linebacker Dre Greenlaw (hamstring) have been ruled out for the upcoming game against Kansas City.

What impact will these roster adjustments have on the Broncos’ overall performance against a tough Chiefs team?

Frequently Asked Questions About the Broncos’ Injury Situation

• What is the expected recovery timeline for Luke Wattenberg?
  Wattenberg will miss a minimum of four games due to his placement on injured reserve and will be ineligible to return until at least the AFC Championship game, if the Broncos advance.
• Who will be the starting center for the Broncos in Wattenberg’s absence?
  Alex Forsyth, a seventh-round pick from 2023, will step into the starting center role. He has previous starting experience from last season.
• How significant is Marcedes Lewis’s role with Nate Adkins injured?
  Marcedes Lewis is expected to provide crucial blocking support and veteran leadership, particularly with Adkins sidelined. He has already demonstrated value in limited snaps this season.
• What other players are currently dealing with injuries for the Broncos?
  Rookie receiver Pat Bryant (concussion) and starting inside linebacker Dre Greenlaw (hamstring) have been ruled out for the upcoming game.
• Will the Broncos’ playoff chances be significantly impacted by these injuries?
  The injuries, particularly to Wattenberg, present a significant challenge to the Broncos’ playoff aspirations. However, their ability to adapt and utilize their depth will be key.