The Denver Broncos had a chance to establish themselves as a Super Bowl contender on Sunday against the San Francisco 49ers, but they all by the wayside in a 24-14 loss where the offense sputtered and the defense broke in the second half.

While the loss is disappointing, especially in the way that the offense looked throughout the game, but the Broncos have long-term concerns coming out of this game as well. Star cornerback Patrick Surtain II left the game with a non-contact ankle injury that left fans concerned about a potential serious injury. Thankfully, that is not the case.

Surtain avoided a serious injury to his ankle and his absence is expected to be short-term, per NFL insider Ian Rapoport.

Article Continues Below

Breakout wide receiver Pat Bryant also was carted off with an ankle injury during this game, but he also avoided a serious injury. That is a great sign for a struggling Broncos offense that desperately needs Bryant as a security blanket for Bo Nix in the passing game.

This story will be updated.