The Denver Broncos have designated rookie running back Jonah Coleman for return from short-term injured reserve, the team announced Wednesday. The 108th overall pick in the fourth round of the 2026 NFL Draft participated in practice as he began his 21-day window to earn reinstatement to the active roster.

Coleman suffered an ankle injury during Denver's Week 2 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars and was placed on injured reserve ahead of Week 3. The designation means Denver has three weeks to activate him to their 53-man roster. Otherwise, he will remain on IR for the remainder of the season.

The 23-year-old made an immediate impact before his injury. He rushed for 39 yards and a touchdown on 10 carries versus the Jaguars while adding three receptions for 19 yards. He also contributed 33 rushing yards during the Broncos final offensive drive, helping the team secure its first win of the season.

Coleman's return to practice comes as Denver deal with another backfield concern, as Tyler Badie missed Wednesday's session because of a thumb injury. He could provide another option for a rushing attack that has been underwhelming through the opening six games. The Broncos rank 26th in the NFL in rushing offense, averaging 84.2 yards per game. Starting running back JK Dobbins has averaged 3.3 yards per carry, while RJ Harvey has contributed as a pass-catching option out of the backfield.

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Coleman is expected to compete for a role behind Dobbins and Harvey if he returns to the active roster. Denver could activate Coleman before Sunday's Week 7 matchup versus the Arizona Cardinals, making that game a potential return date. However, the team must complete the necessary roster transaction before he can be reinstated.

The Broncos have now designated three players for return from injured reserve this season, with offensive tackle Frank Crum and tight end Caleb Lohner also receiving return designations when the initial 53-man roster was finalized. Their practice windows have not opened.