Broncos Lose Waddle and Moss to Concussions in Loss to Panthers

The Denver Broncos will begin their upcoming bye week without two key offensive and defensive players. Wide receiver Jaylen Waddle and cornerback Riley Moss both sustained concussions during Sunday’s game against the Carolina Panthers. The team ruled both players out for the remainder of the contest. Coach Sean Payton stated after the game that he does not believe the Broncos suffered any serious injuries, a assessment that offers a positive outlook for the two players’ recovery.

Moss exited the game in the second quarter after a tackle. He took a hit to the head and neck area while bringing down Panthers running back Trevor Etienne. Moss remained on the field for several minutes before walking off under his own power. He proceeded directly to the locker room without limping. The injury marks another setback for a secondary that recently welcomed back All-Pro cornerback Pat Surtain.

Waddle also left the game in the second quarter following a hit from a Panthers cornerback. Prior to his injury, Waddle had recorded one catch for 22 yards. At that moment, the Broncos led the Panthers 10-0. Waddle went to the locker room for evaluation and did not return for the second half. The team officially ruled him out with a concussion.

With Moss and Waddle sidelined, the Broncos turned to their depth chart. Second-year player Jahdae Barron replaced Moss at cornerback. Denver is already without reserve cornerback Kris Abrams-Draine, who was ruled out of Sunday’s contest with an ankle injury. The team will use its upcoming week off to allow both players to heal before they resume play.

The Broncos will face the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 11 following their bye. Moss has dealt with rib injuries earlier this season. He missed time in Week 4 against the San Francisco 49ers and played sparingly in Week 6 against the Seattle Seahawks. On Sunday, Moss had a near interception on a pass from Bryce Young down the right sideline but dropped the ball.

Reserve defensive tackle Eyioma Uwazurike was placed on injured reserve after a shoulder injury sustained against the Kansas City Chiefs last week. Payton said the injury is not season-ending. Uwazurike is eligible to return on Dec. 13 for the Week 14 trip to Las Vegas. The fourth-year lineman has recorded 16 pressures and seven run stops this season according to Pro Football Focus. Reserves Jordan Jackson, Tyler Onyedim and Sai’vion Jones are expected to see increased playing time during Uwazurike’s absence.