Broncos HC Sean Payton tells reporters that he doesn’t believe that CB Pat Surtain II or WR Pat Bryant will be placed on the IR

Denver Broncos' head coach Sean Payton addressed the media and provided updates on the team's notable injuries. Speaking about cornerback Pat Surtain II and wide receiver Pat Bryant, Payton expressed no belief that they would be placed on the injured reserve, short-term or season-ending. Both players were seen leaving Sunday's game against the 49ers, with Surtain II suspected of suffering an ankle injury and Bryant possibly an achilles injury.

Later that night and early Monday, it was confirmed that the ankle injuries were not season-ending but rather short-term. This news, though not ruling out potential short-term IR stints, suggests the players may return within a few weeks. The Broncos face their division rivals, the Los Angeles Chargers, and the reigning champs, the Seattle Seahawks, in the near future, which may see Surtain and Bryant sidelined.

However, this does not necessarily mean they will miss the upcoming Thursday Night game against the Cardinals. The Broncos will likely rely on depth, with players like Jahdae Barron, Kris Abrams-Draine, Lil'Jordan Humphrey, Marvin Mims Jr., and Troy Franklin stepping up to fill in for the injured players.