Denver Broncos second-year wide receiver Troy Franklin has been a key part of the team’s passing attack, but a hamstring injury could sideline the Oregon product for the AFC Championship Game. The team’s injury report officially lists him as questionable and he was a limited participant in all three practices. Only time will tell if he actually suits up, but it appears as though he is a legitimate game-time decision.
Troy Franklin Injury Update: Broncos WR Questionable (Hamstring)
The Troy Franklin injury could be devastating news for a Denver Broncos team that is already struggling to adjust to an injured passing attack. While Courtland Sutton is the unquestioned top option in the passing attack, Franklin quietly emerged as a reliable WR2 for this team. Appearing in all 17 games, the second-year pro finished the season with 65 receptions for 709 yards and six touchdowns, all second on the team behind Sutton.
Even if Franklin can play, Denver’s passing attack will look different in the AFC Championship Game. Second-year quarterback Bo Nix suffered a season-ending ankle injury against the Buffalo Bills last week, forcing the Broncos to turn the keys over to Jarrett Stidham. Stidham, a longtime backup, originally entered the league with the New England Patriots but spent most of his time in the league with the Las Vegas Raiders and Denver Broncos. In total, the career backup has appeared in 20 games, making four starts while completing 59.4% of his passes for 1,422 yards, eight touchdowns, and eight interceptions.
If the hamstring injury sidelines Troy Franklin, Denver will likely turn to rookie receiver Pat Bryant. A third-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Bryant was limited in Wednesday’s practice but doesn’t have a designation for Sunday’s game. The wideout recorded 31 receptions for 378 yards and one touchdown during his inaugural campaign and has come on strong down the stretch.
Main Photo: Ron Chenoy – Imagn Images
