Patriots vs. Broncos Preview: Sunday’s AFC Championship Game Breakdown
The 2025 NFL AFC Conference Championship Game pits the New England Patriots against the Denver Broncos on Sunday, January 25, 2026 (3:05 p.m. EST) at Empower Field at Mile High in Denver. Both teams enter this high-stakes showdown with contrasting narratives — New England riding postseason momentum and Denver facing adversity after a key injury to its franchise quarterback.
The Patriots (14-3 in the regular season) have surged behind Drake Maye’s MVP-level play, while the Broncos (also 14-3) boast one of the NFL’s most ferocious defenses. Denver clinched the AFC’s top seed and a home game, yet now must battle with a backup quarterback under center.
Latest Injury & Practice Reports: Patriots vs. Broncos
New England Patriots – Friday, January 23, 2026
OUT
Harold Landry III (LB) – Knee (ruled out for AFC Championship)
Questionable
Mack Hollins (WR) – Abdomen (limited practice; could be activated from IR)
Carlton Davis III (CB) – Concussion protocol (limited participation)
Marte Mapu (LB) – Hip (limited participation)
Practice Participation Notes
Patriots reported Harold Landry, Marte Mapu, and Garrett Bradbury did not practice, while Carlton Davis III, Christian Elliss, Mack Hollins, Morgan Moses, and Thayer Munford Jr. were limited in practice. Full participants included Joshua Farmer, TreVeyon Henderson, Terrell Jennings, and Robert Spillane.
Denver Broncos – Friday, January 23, 2026
Did Not Practice
Bo Nix (QB) – Ankle (season-ending; will not play)
Limited Participation
J.K. Dobbins (RB) – Foot (limited again)
Alex Forsyth (C) – Ankle (limited)
Troy Franklin (WR) – Hamstring (limited)
Full Participation
Pat Bryant (WR) – Concussion (upgraded to full)
Frank Crum (T) – Ankle (full)
Lucas Krull (TE) – Foot (full)
Drew Sanders (LB) – Ankle (full)
JL Skinner (S) – Quad (full)
Luke Wattenberg (C) – Shoulder (full)
Key Notes from Today’s Reports
Patriots ruled out sack leader Harold Landry III, a major defensive loss, while three starters remain questionable into Friday.
Broncos backup Jarrett Stidham will start at QB since Bo Nix is out for the season after ankle surgery.
Denver’s offensive health is a mixed bag — key contributors are limited, but several players including WR Pat Bryant practiced fully Friday.
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Impact of Injuries: What It Means for Sunday
Broncos Offense Under Strain
The news that Bo Nix will miss the remainder of the playoffs with a broken ankle dealt a stunning blow to Denver’s offensive outlook. Nix’s season-ending injury came while leading a dramatic 33-30 overtime victory in the Divisional Round.
With Nix sidelined and Stidham stepping in, Denver’s offensive identity shifts drastically. Stidham has minimal recent NFL action and a modest career record, creating uncertainty in both the passing game and overall offensive rhythm.
The potential return of center Luke Wattenberg from IR could bolster Denver’s offensive line - critical for giving Stidham time and supporting a run game already hampered by the absence of J.K. Dobbins.
Patriots Maintaining Depth
New England’s injury list is notably lighter. While defensive standouts like Carlton Davis III are limited in practice, the Patriots retain a relatively full roster and emerging depth.
Head coach Mike Vrabel’s group has shown resilience, particularly on defense - an area that could exploit a rebuilding Broncos offense. Emerging contributors like rookie defenders and depth players give New England flexibility against Denver’s pass rush and unconventional quarterback play.
Key Matchups & X-Factors
Drake Maye vs. Denver Pass Rush: Maye has shined under pressure this season, and New England’s ability to capitalize against a top-tier defense could be decisive.
Broncos Defensive Front vs. Patriots Offense: Denver’s aggressive pass rush led the league in sacks; containing explosive plays could tilt the game.
Special Teams & Field Position: In tight, playoff-level games, hidden yardage and field position could swing momentum.
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