The Broncos are without a key defensive player.
Starting defensive end Zach Allen (heel) is inactive for Denver’s road matchup against the Raiders on Sunday afternoon at Allegiant Stadium. It’s the first game Allen has missed as a member of the Broncos.
Allen was a limited participant on Wednesday due to rest. He practiced fully on Thursday and was once again limited on Friday because of the injury.
Allen’s absence is significant for the Broncos, who rank first in sacks (39) and second in pressures (164). Allen has been one of the top defensive linemen in the league this season, recording five sacks and 46 pressures — tied for seventh in the league.
With Allen sidelined, defensive lineman Eyioma Uwazurike will play on Sunday. Starting safety Brandon Jones will also play despite being listed as questionable on Saturday night due to an illness.
The rest of Denver’s inactive players included cornerback Kris Abrams-Draine, offensive tackle Frank Crum, guard Calvin Throckmorton, tight end Greg Dulcich, guard Nick Gargiulo and quarterback Zach Wilson.
Wilson will serve as the team’s emergency third quarterback.
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