Broncos Receiver Pat Bryant Hospitalized Following Severe Collision
Denver, Monday, 22 December 2025.
Broncos receiver Pat Bryant was hospitalized Sunday following a heavy hit. Encouragingly, reports confirm movement in his extremities, mitigating immediate fears regarding neurological damage despite the alarming on-field incident.
Incident Details and On-Field Ruling
The injury occurred during the closing moments of Sunday’s game at Empower Field at Mile High, where the Broncos ultimately fell to the Jacksonville Jaguars with a final score of 34-20 [1][4]. With 31 seconds remaining in regulation, Bryant attempted to secure a pass over the middle of the field when he absorbed a high-impact collision from Jaguars cornerback Montaric Brown [1][3]. Although officials initially threw a flag on the play, a subsequent review led them to rescind the penalty, determining that Brown had delivered a clean hit to the chest rather than targeting the head [1]. The intensity of the moment was palpable, with Broncos quarterback Bo Nix visibly reacting by slamming his helmet to the turf as medical staff attended to his teammate [1].
Medical Status and Preliminary Prognosis
Following the collision, Bryant was immobilized on a backboard and carted off the field before being transported directly to a local hospital by ambulance for further evaluation [1][6]. In the immediate aftermath, Broncos head coach Sean Payton provided a crucial update during his postgame press conference, stating that Bryant displayed movement in his hands and legs [1][3]. Subsequent reports suggest that while the rookie receiver is being treated for concussion-like symptoms, the diagnosis does not appear to involve severe neurological issues, offering a degree of relief regarding his long-term health [1].
Roster Implications and Short Week Turnaround
The loss of Bryant presents a logistical challenge for the Broncos as they prepare for a condensed game week. The third-round draft pick out of Illinois has been a contributing factor in the offense, tallying five catches for 42 yards in Sunday’s contest prior to his exit [1][6]. On the season, Bryant has accumulated 22 receptions for 305 yards and one touchdown [1]. With the Broncos scheduled to play the Kansas City Chiefs this Thursday, the abbreviated recovery window makes Bryant’s participation highly improbable, requiring immediate adjustments to the team’s wide receiver depth chart [6].