Broncos Inactives vs Patriots: Full List and What It Means for the AFC Championship

The Denver Broncos have announced their inactive players for the AFC Championship Game against the New England Patriots, confirming which members of the 53-man roster will not be available for Sunday’s playoff showdown at Empower Field at Mile High. The list was released shortly before kickoff and gives a clearer look at how Denver will shape its game-day lineup.

The inactive group includes depth players at wide receiver, defensive line, linebacker and the secondary. While the Broncos still have their core available, the list affects rotation, special teams depth and late-game flexibility in a matchup where small roster details can matter.

Denver Broncos inactive list for AFC Championship Game

👀 our inactives for #NEvsDEN.

📰 » https://t.co/CkxlpoDvKE pic.twitter.com/w9cOFeP17P

— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) January 25, 2026

What the inactive list means for Denver

The biggest change comes at wide receiver, where Troy Franklin and Michael Bandy are both unavailable. That leaves Denver with fewer options in its receiving rotation and could push more snaps toward the team’s primary pass catchers, tight ends and backs in designed short-area situations.

On the defensive front, Jordan Jackson and Saivion Jones being inactive reduces Denver’s depth in the trenches. That does not change the starting plan, but it can affect how frequently the Broncos rotate fresh bodies against New England’s offensive line.

Karene Reid and JL Skinner being sidelined also trims depth at linebacker and safety. Those positions matter on special teams and in sub-packages, especially when an opponent uses motion, play-action or multiple tight-end looks.

Why inactives matter in a championship game

NFL teams must declare inactive players before kickoff, reducing the number of players eligible to appear in the game. These decisions are shaped by injuries, matchup plans, special teams needs and how coaches expect the game to unfold.

In a conference championship, the margin is usually thin. A missing reserve defender, a reduced wide receiver rotation or one less special teams option can influence field position, substitutions and late-game decisions.

Patriots will watch Denver’s depth closely

For New England, Denver’s inactive list helps identify where the Broncos have fewer backup options. Offensive coordinators often use these announcements to prepare personnel groupings that could test a defense’s depth over four quarters.

The Patriots still have to beat Denver’s starters, but a shorter rotation can matter if the game becomes physical or if either team has to adjust quickly after an injury.

Fans looking for more NFL playoff coverage can follow the latest updates through the latest sports news and game coverage as the AFC Championship storyline continues.

The Broncos released the inactive list through their official team channels ahead of kickoff. Official game information, statistics and play-by-play updates are available through the NFL Game Center.