The Broncos have ruled out cornerback Pat Surtain II (concussion) and offensive tackle Alex Palczewski ahead of Thursday night’s matchup against the Saints.
Surtain was listed as a non-participant at practice for three straight days after suffering a head injury in the first quarter of last week’s loss to the Los Angeles Chargers. He will miss his first game since his rookie season.
With Surtain sidelined, the Broncos could play Ja’Quan McMillian or Levi Wallace at outside cornerback.
Palczewski was listed as a limited participant on the injury report on Monday and Tuesday before not participating in Wednesday’s walkthrough. Veteran Matt Peart could make his second straight start at right tackle. However, Denver opened the 21-day practice window for starting right tackle Mike McGlinchey (knee) and outside linebacker Baron Browning (foot) this week.
Both players and cornerback Damarri Mathis (ankle), all of whom are on injured reserve, were full participants on Wednesday and listed as questionable to play. Denver could move at least two of the players to the active roster after waiving safety Tanner McCalister and releasing inside linebacker Kristian Welch.
Welch signed to the Ravens’ practice squad on Wednesday, per the league’s transaction wire.
For the Saints, wide receivers Rasheed Shaheed (knee) and Chris Olave (concussion) have been ruled out of Week 7’s contest. Starting right guard Cesar Ruiz (knee) and linebacker Pete Warner (hamstring) will also be sidelined.
Quarterback Derek Carr (oblique) and tight end Taysom Hill (rib) are doubtful to play.
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