Brandon Jones latest injury report: Denver Broncos lose their star safety with 78 tackles this season to injured reserve

Brandon Jones, a 27-year-old standout safety, played his first three rookie seasons for the Miami Dolphins. He only joined the Denver Broncos in 2024. That first year was his breakout season, where he accumulated 115 combined tackles, setting the single-season franchise record for a safety since 2009.

Jones amassed 78 total tackles, one interception, 93% of defensive snaps, and 0.5 sacks in 15 games this season. He was set for another breakout year, but it was cut short in Week 15 against the Green Bay Packers. Jones suffered a pectoral (chest) injury in the second half of Sunday’s 34-26 victory and did not return.

Broncos secondary standout Brandon Jones may be sidelined for the last three regular-season games and the team’s opening playoff clash

NFL Insider Ian Rapoport reported on X that Broncos standout safety Brandon Jones was believed to have suffered a pectoral injury and was having an MRI, according to his sources.

Jones is one of Denver’s most underrated players and has become a key part of the defense with 78 tackles.Ari Koslow, a Broncos correspondent for FantasyPros, said Jones underwent an MRI that likely revealed a serious issue.ESPN’s Jeff Legwold reported that it was unclear if Jones would need surgery to repair the injury.NBC Sports’ Josh Alper reported that Denver will be without their safety for the rest of the regular season.

Jones went on injured reserve Monday with a chest injury from Sunday’s win over Green Bay. He will miss the last three regular-season games and the Broncos’ first playoff game before he is eligible to return.In the second half of last Sunday’s matchup, veteran P.J. Locke stepped in for Jones. He is set to move into the starting lineup in Jones’ absence. The 28-year-old safety, Locke, has played only 46 defensive snaps in the 2025 season.

Head coach Sean Payton complimented Locke, saying that he played “real well” against the Packers. Locke recorded one combined tackle and one pass defended in Week 15 clash against Green Bay.A similar injury as that of Jones had already affected another Broncos secondary standout, Patrick Surtain II, earlier in the season. He missed three games and returned healthy for the Week 13 lineup to play against the Washington Commanders. Now, the Broncos will monitor Jones’ recovery, as his return could bolster Denver’s defense when it's needed most.Also Read: Broncos QB Bo Nix deletes social media to escape criticism from fans and prioritize football's toughest season