Why isn't Audric Estimé playing for the Broncos against the Jets? NFL Week 4 injury status

Audric Estimé was ready to make his mark on the NFL, but his debut with the Broncos has hit a snag. After seeing just three snaps in Week 2, Denver placed the rookie running back on injured reserve due to an ankle injury. It’s a tough break for the fifth-round draft pick, who had just started to find his rhythm, carrying the ball twice for 14 yards against Seattle.

The Broncos made the call to sideline Estimé for at least four games, meaning he won’t be back before Week 6 when they face the Chargers. While the good news is that he won’t need surgery, the IR placement buys him some time to recover. He was spotted working on the side field during practice, which hints at some progress, but the Broncos aren’t taking any chances.

This isn’t the first time injuries have slowed down Estimé. He missed OTAs and mandatory minicamp in June after undergoing a minor knee procedure. The Broncos were hopeful that once he got healthy, he could provide some extra punch in the backfield. Instead, they’ll have to wait a little longer to see what he can really do. With Estimé sidelined, Denver has promoted fullback Michael Burton from the practice squad, hoping to shore up their run game in the meantime.

With or without Estimé, Denver does have some concerns on the injury front. Safety JL Skinner is officially out with an ankle injury, leaving the Broncos’ secondary a little more vulnerable against a Jets offense that, while not exactly lighting up the scoreboard, can still find gaps in a defense. Skinner’s absence will be felt as he’s played in two games this season, and the Broncos are already struggling on the back end.

Tight end Nate Adkins is listed as questionable, with a shoulder issue that’s limited his participation in practice this week. His status could be crucial, especially for a Denver offense that has been hit-or-miss. Josh Reynolds, one of the more reliable receivers for the Broncos, is also dealing with an Achilles injury. He practiced in a limited capacity, but his effectiveness could be hampered. Reynolds has 11 catches for 174 yards this season, and Denver will need his hands and route-running to stay sharp against a tough Jets defense.

On the other side, the Jets have their own set of problems, with key players like offensive lineman Morgan Moses ruled out due to a knee injury. C.J. Mosley, the heart of the Jets’ defense, is listed as doubtful with a toe injury. That could be a big break for the Broncos’ offense, which will need all the help it can get to stay competitive in this matchup.

Aaron Rodgers, who has been outspoken since joining the Jets, recently mentioned that the toughest challenge for his team is “handling success.” Whether the Jets are Super Bowl contenders is up for debate, but with a 2-1 record, they’re certainly in the conversation. Sunday’s game will be another test to see how they respond after early-season victories.

Kickoff is set for 1:00 p.m. ET at MetLife Stadium. Both teams will be looking to build some momentum, though the Broncos have a few more bumps and bruises to manage heading into this clash. Without key players like Skinner and with uncertainties around Adkins and Reynolds, the Broncos are heading into hostile territory with a little more weight on their shoulders.