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Mims, who has established himself as a vital component of the Broncos' special teams and offensive rotation, was initially sidelined during Monday night's defeat to the Kansas City Chiefs. Although he briefly exited that contest in the first quarter with what was initially reported as a hip issue, he managed to return to the field for a total of nine snaps. However, the recurring nature of his foot trouble has ultimately forced the team to sideline him for the weekend.
Impact on the Broncos' roster and rotation
The absence of the second-round pick from the 2023 draft presents a tactical challenge for Denver as they look to recover from their recent loss. Mims has been a consistent presence in the team's three-wide receiver sets alongside Courtland Sutton and Jaylen Waddle. His dual-threat capability as both a receiver and a return specialist makes his unavailability a notable blow to the squad's depth.
During the previous game against the Chiefs, the coaching staff adjusted their personnel to cover for Mims' limited availability. Cornerback Kris Abrams-Draine stepped in to handle punt return duties, while running backs RJ Harvey and Jonah Coleman were utilized for kickoff returns. On the offensive side of the ball, Pat Bryant saw an increase in playing time, recording four receptions for 42 yards.
A history of injury concerns
The foot injury is not a new development for the receiver, who has dealt with similar setbacks throughout the year. He missed time during training camp in early August after limping off the field and subsequently exited the preseason finale on August 28 with a right foot issue. As Mims enters the final year of his rookie contract, the team will be monitoring his recovery closely ahead of his status as an unrestricted free agent next March. The Broncos will now look to their remaining depth chart to fill the void left by one of their primary offensive targets and return specialists.
