Broncos' Emmanuel Sanders, Isaiah McKenzie have sprained ankles

ByJeff Legwold ESPN logo
Monday, October 16, 2017

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- Having worked several players through a big line at the MRI tube Monday, the Denver Broncos got mixed results as they try to rebound from Sunday night's 23-10 loss to the New York Giants.

Broncos coach Vance Joseph said wide receivers Emmanuel Sanders and Isaiah McKenzie suffered right ankle sprains. Both injuries were significant sprains and Joseph called both players "week to week,'' before he then ruled them out of next Sunday's game against the Los Angeles Chargers.

Quarterback Trevor Siemian, who briefly left the Giants game with a left shoulder injury just before halftime, was also sent for an MRI Monday. Joseph called the results "good news'' for the team and said Siemian will start against the Chargers.

Wide receiver Demaryius Thomas, who had his right lower leg X-rayed in the third quarter before he returned to finish out the game, also went for an MRI Monday. Joseph said "it's a bruise, he's fine.''

Thomas could be limited at least some in practice this week, but he is expected to play against the Chargers. Thomas could be seen limping significantly, both during and after Sunday's loss. He made 10 catches for 133 yards.

Sanders and McKenzie were both X-rayed at the stadium Sunday night and no fractures were revealed. The two were then sent for MRI exams Monday morning.

"Sprains can come in all different levels, but it's a sprain with both guys,'' Joseph said. "I think Isaiah is little bit less of a sprain than Emmanuel.''

Sanders is second on the team in both catches (25) and receiving yards (266) with two touchdown catches while McKenzie has been a spot player on offense as well as the team's top punt returner.

The Broncos also expect to have wide receiver Cody Latimer return to practice this week. Latimer missed the Giants game with a knee injury.

The Broncos do have wide receiver Hunter Sharp, who was with the team throughout the offseason and training camp, on the practice squad if they believe they need to add a receiver to the roster.

"That's being discussed, whether to bring some one up (from the practice squad) or add someone,'' Joseph said.

Tackle Billy Turner, who replaced an injured Menelik Watson at right tackle during the Giants game, fractured his right hand in the game and was sent to Vail Monday for surgery.

Watson had a calf injury and Turner could play with a cast on his hand, but both players will be monitored through the week. Donald Stephenson, who was a gameday inactive Sunday for the first time this season, or Allen Barbre could play right tackle if both Watson and Turner are not available Sunday.