Broncos Lose Second Starting Safety to Hamstring Injury

Denver Broncos safety Brandon Jones exited Sunday's game against the Kansas City Chiefs with a hamstring injury. The team ruled him out for the second half, leaving the Broncos without both starting safeties for the final two quarters.

Jones had been listed as questionable to play. He missed Thursday's practice session and returned on Friday in a limited capacity. During the first half, he played most snaps but took periodic breaks to ride a stationary bike on the sideline under the supervision of a staff member.

The absence leaves the Broncos with a thin rotation for the defensive backfield. Reserves Taylor Rapp and Devon Key are expected to start the second half. Backups Tycen Anderson and JL Skinner remain options, though both have primarily played on special teams throughout their careers. Jahdae Barron is another candidate, having seen limited snaps at safety during his time at the University of Texas.

The injury comes as the Broncos defend against a potent offense. Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes threw for nearly 200 yards in the first half. He connected on a 73-yard touchdown pass to rookie Emmett Johnson, demonstrating the speed and range the Broncos must cover with a secondary that lacks its original depth.