Saturday, January 17, 2026 • AFC Divisional Round • #BUFvsDEN
The Denver Broncos have confirmed their inactive list for Saturday’s AFC Divisional Round playoff game against the Buffalo Bills, a decision set that has sparked debate among fans despite Denver entering the postseason off a franchise-record-tying 14-3 regular season. The official announcement was shared through team channels and can be followed via the Denver Broncos official website and NFL.com.
Denver Broncos inactives list
- QB Sam Ehlinger (emergency third quarterback)
- CB Reese Taylor
- ILB Karene Reid
- OLB Que Robinson
- WR Elijah Moore
- TE Caleb Lohner
- DE Sai’von Jones
Fan frustration centers on elevated players
Much of the reaction online focused on Elijah Moore and Caleb Lohner, both of whom were elevated from the practice squad in recent weeks but remain inactive for this win-or-advance contest. Replies questioned why depth pieces such as Que Robinson and Sai’von Jones were sidelined given the physical demands of playoff football and the expectation of heavy rotation in cold conditions.
Emergency QB designation explained
Sam Ehlinger was designated as Denver’s emergency third quarterback, a role that allows him to dress only if both primary quarterbacks are injured. While the designation drew curiosity, it reflects standard playoff protocol rather than a last-minute change in the Broncos’ offensive plan.
Strategic depth over short-term rotation
With a dominant regular season behind them and a home playoff game at Empower Field at Mile High, Denver’s coaching staff appears committed to prioritizing core starters and trusted rotational pieces. The inactives suggest a calculated approach, preserving depth while leaning on continuity and discipline in a cold-weather matchup expected to be decided in the trenches.
For the Buffalo perspective and full context on how absences shape the matchup, see our related coverage: Broncos vs Bills Divisional Round: Injuries, Matchups, and the Players Who Could Decide It .
Game note: Inactive lists are finalized pre-kickoff; any late emergency changes will be communicated through official team and league channels.
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