Broncos Rule Out All-Pro & Pro Bowl Defenders vs. Dolphins

The Denver Broncos really could have used every defensive horse they have for Week 3's road tilt at the Miami Dolphins. Alas, the Football Gods didn't oblige.

The Broncos will be without two defensive starters this week. Let's examine the final injury report for both teams.

Broncos

Questionable

Mike Purcell | DT | Ankle

Out

Frank Clark | OLB | Hip
Justin Simmons | S | Hip

Full Go

Garett Bolles | OT | Ankle

Analysis: It was always going to be a stiff test matching up with the Dolphins' offense, but doing so without Simmons is going to make it all the more rough. There was hope he might be able to participate on Friday, after not participating in the first two practices this week, but alas, he's been ruled out, along with Clark.

Hopefully, this is the last game Clark misses with that hip, but the Broncos managed to get by, at least in the first half, without him on the edge last week. But going against the explosive Dolphins with Tua Tagovailoa at the helm, Denver will not only need a repeat performance from Randy Gregory, Jonathon Cooper, and Nik Bonitto but, really, an improved one that lasts all 60 minutes.

Purcell's injury is concerning, as the Broncos lack D-line depth, but keep an eye on Bolles. Although the Broncos' starting left tackle is a full go, if he's nursing any lasting effects of that ankle, it could be exploited by Bradley Chubb in his quest for revenge against his former team and in settling scores with Bolles from all those training camp bouts.

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Dolphins

Questionable

Terron Armstead | OT | Back/Ankle/Knee
Elijah Campbell | DB | Knee
Raekwon Davis | DT | Wrist
Julian Hill | TE | Ankle
Tyler Kroft | TE | Back
Jaelen Phillips | OLB | Back
Jaylen Waddle | WR | Concussion

Doubtful

Salvon Ahmed | RB | Groin

Full Go

Tyreek Hill | WR | Ankle
Andrew Van Ginkel | LB | Ankle

Analysis: Miami is pretty banged up already, but the key guys it needs are either going to play or are trending in that direction. The Broncos will have their hands full defensively with Hill a full go. Waddle is likely to be a game-time decision on the tail-end of concussion protocol, but the speed both guys bring to the table is tough to keep a lid on.

Armstead's outlook is worth monitoring, too, as the Broncos will need to be able to pressure Tua if they stand any chance of making this a game. On the same side of the ball, it's not looking good for Ahmed, but Raheem Mostert leads the team with 158 rushing yards through two games.

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