Broncos can bring back 2 more players from IR during NFL playoffs

The Denver Broncos might have to make some tough roster management decisions in the coming weeks.

NFL teams are allowed to designate up to eight players to return from injured reserve during the regular season. The Broncos have already used six of those designations, including two for linebackers Drew Sanders (foot) and Karene Reid (hamstring). Neither player has been activated to the 53-man roster yet, but both are eligible.

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Even if Reid and Sanders are not eventually activated, they will still count against the team's limit of eight designations, so the club has to weigh roster spots and return limits as it makes decisions.

Another player who is eligible to return is tight end Lucas Krull (foot). If Denver plans to maximize its regular season IR returns, decisions have to be made by Saturday before the team faces the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday.

Once the NFL playoffs begin, the Broncos can bring back two more players from IR. Potential candidates could include center Luke Wattenberg (who might be able to return for a potential AFC title game) and running back J.K. Dobbins (who might be able to return for a potential Super Bowl).

It's unclear if safety Brandon Jones (pectoral) has a season-ending injury. If not, he could be a third candidate to return in the postseason, but Denver's playoff limit will be two IR returns.

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This article originally appeared on Broncos Wire: Denver Broncos: 2 players can return from IR during NFL playoffs