How Broncos Are Handling Rib Injury to Starting CB Riley Moss

The Denver Broncos are not pressing the panic button over the rib injury sustained by cornerback Riley Moss in last week's preseason loss to Green Bay.

Head coach Sean Payton told reporters Monday that Moss is "doing fine" and intimated he won't miss much, if any, time going forward.

"I would say it's nothing serious. We're being smart," Payton offered following training camp practice. "We'll see as the week progresses where he's at."

Moss started against the Packers and was injured after scooping up what was initially ruled a Patrick Surtain II forced fumble; he was promptly tackled by a host of players and landed with that weight and the football on his ribs area.

Moss exited the field in noticeable pain and was taken to the blue medical tent on the sideline before being escorted to the locker room for further evaluation. He finished the contest with one recorded pass deflection amid the 33-13 defeat.

"Good. We'll see," Payton said of Moss during his post-game press conference.

Among the biggest camp winners, Moss is one of several extension-eligible Broncos vying for a new deal from the organization. The fourth-year pro is currently scheduled to take home $3.674 million in base salary while counting a little under $4 million against the salary cap.

"It’s about taking things day by day, being where your feet are, competing, and improving at one thing every day," Moss said on Aug. 6 regarding his contractual status. "The rest will take care of itself. I trust that God has a plan for me. Whether I have a bad practice or a bad game, there’s always something to learn from it. I trust Him, and that’s how I approach it."

Aug 21, 2026; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Broncos cornerback Riley Moss (21) breaks up a pass for Green Bay Packers wide receiver Christian Watson (9) in the first quarter of a preseason game at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Where The Broncos Go From Here

Denver has a final exhibition matchup this week, hosting the Minnesota Vikings on Friday evening, prior to its Week 1 regular-season tilt at Kansas City — exactly 21 days from the time of this writing.

Moss might not play versus Minnesota, but it appears he's in no real danger of missing the lid-lifter against the Chiefs, a matchup in which his services will be required.

In the interim, the Broncos could put a few additional reps on the respective plates of CBs Jahdae Barron and Kris Abrams-Draine, both of whom have made plays this preseason. The club is also evaluating undrafted corners Sean Fresch Jr. and Brent Austin for potential placement on the practice squad.

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