The Denver Broncos (3-2) are set to host the Los Angeles Chargers (2-2) in Week 6 of the 2024 NFL season on Sunday afternoon. Here’s a quick list of five storylines to keep an eye on leading up to the AFC West showdown.
1. The next next man up at right tackle: After losing Mike McGlinchey to a knee injury, the Broncos turned to Alex Palczewski at right tackle and he played very well before suffering an ankle injury. Palczewski is believed to have suffered a high ankle sprain, which could make him a candidate for injured reserve. McGlinchey will be eligible to return from IR next week, but Denver will need a one-game fill-in against the Chargers. Matt Peart is the most likely candidate. The Broncos also have Frank Crum on the active roster and veteran Cam Fleming on the practice squad.
2. Devaughn Vele’s potential return at wide receiver: After leading the team with eight catches in Week 1, Vele injured his ribs and has not played since his debut. Vele has not appeared on the injury report in recent weeks so it seems that he has recovered. Josh Reynolds missed the last two days of practice with a hand injury and if Reynolds is not able to play on Sunday, Vele seems likely to return to the lineup.
3. A new center: Palczewski isn’t the only lineman battling an ankle injury this week. Starting center Luke Wattenberg has also been sidelined, which likely means Alex Forsyth is set to make his first NFL start against Los Angeles. Forsyth played with Bo Nix in college, so he already has existing chemistry with the rookie quarterback.
4. Joey Bosa’s uncertain status: The Chargers’ star pass rusher missed the last two days of practice with a hip injury, putting his status in doubt for Week 6. Denver’s banged-up offensive line would benefit from not having to face Bosa, who has 7.5 sacks in 12 career games against the Broncos.
5. Bo Nix against the NFL’s best defense: Putting aside an abnormal rain game against the Jets (67.9) two weeks ago, Nix’s passer rating has otherwise been trending up this season from 47.5 to 55.2 to 85.0 to 117.2. He’s now set to face a huge test when he goes up against an L.A. defense that ranks No. 1 in points allowed this season (12.5 per game). Nix has not had a single turnover during the team’s three-game winning streak and he has done a good job of eluding sacks. If Denver’s going to keep the streak going, Nix will need another strong performance against a tough Chargers squad.
