Waddle and Moss out for Broncos with concussions

Denver lost two primary offensive and defensive weapons to concussion protocols in Sunday's matchup against the Carolina Panthers. The injuries sideline wide receiver Jaylen Waddle and cornerback Riley Moss for the remainder of the contest.

Waddle sustained a hard hit from a Panthers cornerback in the second quarter. He had already recorded one reception for 22 yards before leaving the field while the Broncos led 10-0. Team officials ruled him out for the second half after he underwent a concussion evaluation in the locker room.

Moss exited the game after taking a blow to the head and neck area on a second-quarter tackle of running back Trevor Etienne. He remained on the field for several minutes before walking off on his own power. Coach Sean Payton said he does not believe the Broncos suffered serious injuries in the game, a positive sign for both players.

The Broncos enter an upcoming bye week, which provides time for Waddle and Moss to heal. They are expected to recover ahead of Week 11 against the Las Vegas Raiders. Second-year player Jahdae Barron replaced Moss in the secondary after the injury.

Denver is already missing reserve cornerback Kris Abrams-Draine, who was ruled out with an ankle injury. Moss has dealt with rib injuries earlier this season, missing a game and a half in Week 4 against San Francisco. He returned in Week 6 but played sparingly.

Defensive tackle Eyioma Uwazurike was placed on injured reserve following a shoulder injury against Kansas City. Payton stated the injury is not season-ending. Uwazurike is eligible to return Dec. 13 in Week 14. The fourth-year lineman recorded 16 pressures and seven run stops this season, according to Pro Football Focus.

Reserves Jordan Jackson, Tyler Onyedim and Sai'vion Jones will likely see increased playing time during Uwazurike's absence. The team continues to manage its depth chart with multiple players returning from previous ailments.