The Denver Broncos’ wide receiver corps suffered a setback as KJ Hamler announced on his Instagram account that he has been diagnosed with pericarditis, a mild heart irritation. Hamler stated that he would miss some time but aimed to return to the field this season after undergoing treatment with medication. In response to his condition, the Broncos waived Hamler with a non-football illness designation to facilitate his treatment. However, there is a possibility for him to rejoin the team if he is cleared in the future.
Adding to the Broncos’ woes, Tim Patrick, who missed the 2022 season due to a torn right ACL, suffered a torn Achilles tendon in his left leg during practice and will be sidelined for the entire season. Patrick, who had shown promise in training camp and had been working extensively with the starters, will leave a significant void in the wide receiver rotations.
The Broncos’ wide receiver corps has been plagued by injuries over the past few seasons. Their projected top four receivers, including Courtland Sutton, Jerry Jeudy, KJ Hamler, and Tim Patrick, have only played two games together in the last three years. Sutton endured an ACL tear in 2020, Hamler had a torn ACL and a hip injury in 2021, and Patrick suffered a torn ACL last year.
In an attempt to bolster their wide receiver corps, the Broncos signed former New Orleans Saints receivers Marquez Callaway and Lil’Jordan Humphrey in the offseason. They also utilized a second-round pick in the April draft to select Marvin Mims Jr., who made his practice debut on Monday after dealing with hamstring pain. As the Broncos navigate through these injuries, Mims will likely see an increased role in the coming days.
Coach Sean Payton has not specifically addressed KJ Hamler’s absence from practice or his condition. When questioned about the wide receiver position in light of Tim Patrick’s injury, Payton emphasized the team’s deep roster and expressed optimism about Marvin Mims Jr.’s progress. Payton indicated that Mims would be gradually integrated into practice and that his involvement would expand throughout the week. While the loss of Patrick will undoubtedly impact the rotations, Payton remains confident in the talent and potential of the wide receiver group.
The Denver Broncos’ wide receiver depth chart has taken a significant hit with injuries to KJ Hamler and Tim Patrick. Hamler’s diagnosis of pericarditis will keep him off the field temporarily, and his future with the team is still uncertain. In contrast, Patrick’s torn Achilles tendon will sideline him for the entire season. As the Broncos look to overcome these setbacks, they will rely on the depth of their wide receiver corps and the potential of newly acquired players like Marvin Mims Jr. Despite the challenges, Coach Payton remains positive and anticipates progress from the team’s younger receivers.
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