Zach Allen and Jaylen Waddle Are Back at Practice, and the Broncos Just Got a Timely Boost

Broncos Country, Thursday's practice report was the good kind of news. Two players this team really needs were back on the field after sitting out Wednesday.

Our Take: This is a real lift for a division game this big. Zach Allen is the engine of the defensive front, and Jaylen Waddle gives the offense a speed threat nobody else on the roster can match. Getting both of them back on the practice field is a big step.

According to the Broncos' official site, Allen (hamstring) and Waddle (chest) returned as limited participants Thursday after not practicing Wednesday. Team writer Aric DiLalla reports Marvin Mims Jr. (ankle) was upgraded to full, Garett Bolles (hip) was limited again, and Brandon Jones (hamstring) and RJ Harvey (knee) were added to the report as limited. Talanoa Hufanga (ankle) missed practice again. Head coach Sean Payton summed up the week simply: "We're just trying to find a way to get this one."

Pro Football Rumors adds that Waddle has 26 catches for 276 yards and a touchdown, and that NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported Waddle is trending toward playing. The site also notes Pat Surtain II is expected to return, citing CBS's Matt Zenitz.

What to watch: Friday's game statuses. If Allen and Waddle both avoid being ruled out, Denver goes into Sunday close to full strength on both sides of the ball.

Sources: Denver Broncos, Pro Football Rumors