Broncos’ Pat Bryant Carted Off Field After Devastating Hit in Loss to Jaguars
DENVER, Colo. — In a tense moment that cast a shadow over the Denver Broncos’ home loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday, wide receiver Pat Bryant was carted off the field after a brutal hit late in the fourth quarter. The incident occurred just seconds before the final whistle at Empower Field at Mile High, where the Broncos fell 34-20 to a surging Jaguars team.
Bryant was attempting to secure a catch when Jaguars cornerback Montaric Brown delivered a forceful hit that echoed throughout the stadium. Broadcasters captured the unsettling sound of helmet and pads colliding as Bryant collapsed to the turf, motionless. Medical personnel rushed onto the field promptly, attending to Bryant with visible concern. After several minutes of on-field evaluation, he was carefully placed on a stretcher and transported off the field.
The Broncos’ head coach Sean Payton later provided an update, noting that Bryant “had movement” in his extremities, an encouraging sign amid the uncertainty. The team confirmed that Bryant was taken to a local hospital as a precautionary measure, a standard protocol in cases involving potential head or spinal injuries. According to NFL official player health protocols, such precautions are essential to ensure player safety following traumatic impacts.
This incident unfolded during a pivotal game for both teams. The Jaguars extended their winning streak to six games, improving to 11-4 and maintaining a slim lead over the Houston Texans atop the AFC South. Meanwhile, the Broncos, now 12-3, have clinched the best record in the AFC and are positioned strongly for the playoffs. The loss marks the Broncos’ first defeat in 12 games, a testament to their remarkable season.
Empower Field at Mile High was filled with palpable concern for Bryant as the stadium fell silent during his removal. The Broncos’ medical staff, trained in accordance with CDC concussion safety guidelines, acted swiftly to stabilize Bryant and minimize any further risk.
Pat Bryant’s injury highlights the physical toll of professional football and the ongoing emphasis on player safety. The NFL has implemented numerous measures in recent years to address head injuries, including the use of advanced protective gear and stringent return-to-play protocols. The league’s commitment to health and safety is detailed extensively on the NFL Players Association health and safety page.
As Bryant recovers, the Broncos and their fans will be hoping for positive news in the coming days. The team’s resilience will be tested as they prepare for the postseason, with Bryant’s health a critical factor in their offensive lineup.
The Broncos’ next game will be closely watched, not only for their playoff implications but also for updates on Bryant’s condition. Meanwhile, the Jaguars continue to build momentum in their bid for a postseason berth, showcasing a dynamic team effort that has shaken up the AFC standings this late in the season.
For ongoing updates on player safety and NFL health protocols, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the NFL’s official health and safety resources provide comprehensive information.
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