Denver Broncos safety Talanoa Hufanga returned to practice Thursday for the first time since suffering an ankle injury against the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 5.
Hufanga participated on a limited basis after sitting out Wednesday’s session, marking progress ahead of Sunday’s road game vs. the Carolina Panthers.
The starting safety has missed Denver’s last three games since leaving the October 11 matchup. Taylor Rapp and Devon Key have handled most of the work in his absence. Denver held the session in Englewood, Colorado, as it continued preparations for its upcoming trip east to Charlotte.
The Athletic’s Nick Kosmider highlighted Hufanga’s change in participation Thursday on X, formerly Twitter, sharing the Broncos’ official injury report alongside his update.
“Broncos safety Talanoa Hufanga (limited; ankle) participated in portions of a practice today for the first time since suffering the injury in Week 5 against the Chargers.”
Hufanga recorded 23 tackles, one sack, three tackles for loss and three passes defensed across his first five appearances this season. He also intercepted two passes, returning one for a touchdown, and forced a fumble in the win over Los Angeles.
His availability carries additional importance with fellow starting safety Brandon Jones dealing with a hamstring injury. Jones missed practice for a second consecutive day Thursday, leaving uncertainty at both starting safety positions.
Limited participation does not establish that Hufanga will play this weekend. The Broncos have not assigned him a final game designation, and Friday’s report will provide the next official assessment of his availability.
The Broncos enter Week 9 at 6-2, leading the AFC West and seeking their fifth consecutive victory. Carolina is 3-4 and sits atop the NFC South.
The teams meet Sunday at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, with kickoff scheduled for 1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT.
For now, Hufanga has resumed practice work, while his status against the Panthers remains unresolved.