Brandon Johnson's signing to Denver's practice squad bolsters receiver depth ahead of the AFC Championship. For bettors, this reduces downside risk from injuries to Troy Franklin and Pat Bryant — consider leaning toward Broncos team totals or safer WR props; avoid large bets on Franklin/Bryant until the Wednesday injury report.
Broncos add Brandon Johnson to practice squad amid receiver injuries
The Denver Broncos have signed former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Brandon Johnson to their practice squad as they enter the AFC Championship window. Johnson returns to a familiar environment after two seasons with the team, offering immediate depth as Denver manages several injured wideouts.
Johnson’s fit and recent production
Johnson appeared in 20 games (three starts) during his prior stint with the Broncos, totaling 25 catches for 326 yards and five touchdowns. His best season came under the current coaching staff, when he posted 19 catches for 284 yards and four touchdowns in 2023. That familiarity with the offense makes him a convenient insurance option late in the week.
Receivers dealing with injuries ahead of New England matchup
Denver sustained multiple receiver injuries during its divisional-round win. Marvin Mims finished the game and is expected to be available, but Troy Franklin exited early with a hamstring issue and Pat Bryant suffered a concussion — his second in a month. If Franklin and Bryant are unavailable, the active roster would be down to three healthy receivers: Mims, Courtland Sutton and Lil'Jordan Humphrey.
What to expect this week
The Broncos will issue their first injury report on Wednesday, which will clarify Franklin’s hamstring and Bryant’s concussion status. Johnson’s addition is a short-term depth move that could be converted to the active roster depending on Wednesday’s evaluations and any further developments in practice.
Betting implications
This signing eases some roster concerns and reduces the chance Denver pivots to a drastically altered game plan because of receiver attrition. Punters should be cautious about placing large single-WR prop bets on Franklin or Bryant until the official injury report. Consider safer plays: Broncos team passing totals and lineup-insensitive markets, or lower-risk WR receptions/yardage props favoring established targets.
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The Denver Broncos are adding a wide receiver to their practice squad after the team saw both Pat Bryant and Troy Franklin exit the divisional-round win over the Buffalo Bills due to injuries.
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