Broncos Elevate DE Matt Henningsen, RB Blake Watson for Thursday Night Clash Against…

 

LOS ANGELES — As the Denver Broncos prepare to face the Los Angeles Chargers in a “Thursday Night Football” showdown, the team has made key adjustments to its active roster. Defensive end Matt Henningsen and running back Blake Watson have been elevated from the practice squad, providing depth in crucial areas for the primetime matchup at SoFi Stadium.

For Henningsen, this marks a potential opportunity to contribute to the Broncos’ defensive line for the first time this season. The 2022 sixth-round pick out of Wisconsin has proven his reliability in previous years, playing in 34 games over the 2022 and 2023 seasons. During that time, Henningsen contributed consistently, logging 40 tackles, two tackles for loss, two quarterback hits, a sack, and two passes defensed. His ability to step up on both defense and special teams where he played nearly 40% of snaps in his first two seasons  makes him a versatile piece of Denver’s roster.

The decision to elevate Henningsen reflects the Broncos’ focus on bolstering their defensive front as they aim to contain a Chargers offense led by quarterback Justin Herbert. With the Chargers boasting weapons like running back Austin Ekeler and wide receiver Keenan Allen, Henningsen’s role could be pivotal in applying pressure and disrupting the rhythm of Los Angeles’ offensive unit.

On the offensive side, the Broncos have added rookie running back Blake Watson to the game day roster. Watson, an undrafted free agent out of Memphis, provides depth in Denver’s backfield following the absence of running back Jaleel McLaughlin, who was ruled out on Wednesday. Watson has appeared in just one game this season a Week 5 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders where he played two snaps but did not receive any carries.

Despite limited NFL experience, Watson’s collegiate production at Memphis speaks volumes. In his final season, he showcased his explosiveness and efficiency, rushing for 1,152 yards and 14 touchdowns while averaging an impressive 6.0 yards per carry. While Watson has yet to record a carry at the professional level, his elevation signals that the Broncos are prepared to rely on him in critical moments should the need arise.

Denver’s running game has been a cornerstone of its offensive strategy this season, and Watson joins a backfield featuring Javonte Williams and Samaje Perine. With McLaughlin sidelined, Watson’s elevation ensures the Broncos maintain depth and flexibility in a crucial divisional matchup.

The Broncos enter Thursday night’s contest with a MT kickoff at SoFi Stadium. This game represents an opportunity for Denver to build momentum as the season progresses, while the Chargers aim to stay competitive in the AFC West.

As Denver looks to contain Herbert and capitalize on offensive opportunities, the additions of Henningsen and Watson could play a vital role in shaping the game’s outcome. Fans will be watching closely to see how these two contributors make their mark in the national spotlight.

Stay tuned for updates and analysis as the Broncos take on the Chargers in what promises to be a thrilling divisional showdown.