The Denver Broncos could be without both starting safeties for Sunday's Week 9 matchup against the Carolina Panthers. Talanoa Hufanga and Brandon Jones were among four defensive players who missed Wednesday's practice, extending the Broncos' injury concerns from their previous matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs.
According to the Broncos' official injury report, Hufanga remains sidelined by an ankle injury, while Jones is dealing with a hamstring issue. Neither player has been ruled out, but their availability remains uncertain.
Hufanga has missed Denver's last three games since suffering his injury against the Los Angeles Chargers. The Broncos have already needed to make adjustments in the secondary while waiting for his return.
Jones, meanwhile, entered the previous matchup against Kansas City with a questionable designation because of his hamstring. His potential absence would leave Denver facing another significant adjustment in the defensive backfield.
The injury concerns extend beyond the safety position. Cornerback Kris Abrams-Draine missed Wednesday's practice with an ankle injury, while defensive lineman Eyioma Uwazurike sat out because of a shoulder issue.
There was encouraging news elsewhere on the roster. Wide receiver Pat Bryant and Jaylen Waddle continue managing the chest issue that previously threatened his availability against Kansas City.
Denver will have two more practice opportunities before releasing its final injury designations Friday. The Broncos will need to monitor both safeties closely before determining their availability.
For now, the biggest concern only remains the secondary. Losing both Hufanga and Jones would force Denver to rely on its depth against Carolina.