Broncos Face Significant Setback Prior to Raiders Matchup as Running Back is Placed on Injured Reserve.

The Denver Broncos have made the difficult decision to place running back Tyler Badie on injured reserve. On Saturday, the team announced that Badie would be sidelined, while rookie linebacker Levelle Bailey has been promoted to the gameday roster for the upcoming match against the Las Vegas Raiders. Badie sustained a concerning back injury during the Broncos' Week 4 victory over the New York Jets, where he was struck by Jets linebacker Quincy Williams and subsequently lost a fumble. He collapsed briefly before being transported off the field. The Broncos returned to Denver without him, as local medical professionals conducted a thorough examination of the young running back. Badie later traveled home that same night via commercial flight. Earlier this week, Broncos head coach acknowledged the possibility of Badie being placed on injured reserve, and he was officially ruled out for Week 5's game on Friday. This development is particularly unfortunate, as Badie was expected to take on a more significant role in the offense following his impressive performance of nine carries for 70 yards in Week 3 against Tampa.

Badie has become the second running back for the Broncos to be placed on injured reserve, joining rookie fifth-round pick Audric Estime. It remains uncertain whether Badie's time on IR will be brief or if he will be sidelined for the remainder of the season. Head Coach Payton is known for being particularly reserved regarding player injuries, a common trait among NFL coaches. With Badie's absence, the Broncos maintain a strong trio on their 53-man roster. Javonte Williams continues to serve as the primary running back, supported by Jaleel McLaughlin and undrafted rookie Blake Watson. Earlier this week, the Broncos added former Miami Dolphins running back Salvon Ahmed to their practice squad, although he has not yet had sufficient time to integrate into the team for Payton to consider promoting him. Consequently, the running back duties will primarily fall to Williams, McLaughlin, and Watson in the upcoming game against the Raiders. Additionally, Bailey has received his second consecutive elevation for gameday. The rookie from Fresno State initially made the roster during training camp but was subsequently waived and later re-signed to the practice squad.