The New England Patriots have released their official inactive list for Sunday’s matchup against the Denver Broncos, ruling out seven players across offense and defense as both teams prepare for a high-stakes contest at Empower Field at Mile High.
The absences affect multiple position groups, including the offensive line, secondary, and depth at quarterback, adding another layer of intrigue to a game that already carries major playoff implications.
Patriots inactive players vs Broncos:
Harold Landry (OLB)
Kobee Minor (CB)
Marcus Bryant (T)
Caedan Wallace (G)
C.J. Dippre (TE)
Efton Chism (WR)
Tommy DeVito (QB, third string)
Patriots inactives for #NEvsDEN. pic.twitter.com/2wjCvYAAF9
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) January 25, 2026
On defense, the absence of Landry and Minor reduces New England’s rotational flexibility, particularly against a Denver offense that has leaned on tempo and balance at home. The Patriots are expected to compensate with heavier snaps for their primary edge rushers and nickel packages in the secondary.
Offensively, the inactive list is more noticeable along the line. With both Marcus Bryant and Caedan Wallace sidelined, depth becomes a concern if injuries arise mid-game, especially against a Broncos front that thrives on pressure in cold-weather conditions.
At the skill positions, tight end C.J. Dippre and wide receiver Efton Chism will also be unavailable, narrowing the Patriots’ options in short-yardage and red-zone packages. New England is expected to lean more heavily on established targets and multiple-back sets as a result.
Quarterback Tommy DeVito being inactive confirms that New England will dress only two quarterbacks for the game, a standard but notable decision given the physical nature of recent matchups between these teams.
The inactives were announced shortly before kickoff via the Patriots’ official channels, consistent with league protocols outlined by the NFL.
With weather, altitude, and roster availability all factoring in, the Patriots will need clean execution and discipline to offset the missing depth as they take the field in Denver.
