Jacksonville, Florida, December 18, 2025
The Jacksonville Jaguars are confronting significant defensive challenges ahead of their Week 16 contest against the Denver Broncos. Injuries sidelining key players could impact their performance significantly. Notable absences include Josh Hines-Allen and Bhayshul Tuten, both of whom are key to the team’s defense. Despite these injuries, the Jaguars aim to adapt with returning players like Walker Little and Arik Armstead as they strive to maintain their strong record in the season.
Jacksonville Jaguars Face Key Defensive Challenges in Week 16
Jacksonville, Florida – The Jacksonville Jaguars are gearing up for their Week 16 matchup against the Denver Broncos with substantial defensive challenges ahead. The team’s recent injury report details several critical players ruled out due to various injuries, which could significantly impact their performance on the field.
Key Injuries Impacting Jaguars’ Defense
- Josh Hines-Allen: The defensive end is listed as a non-participant due to an illness and a shoulder injury. His status raises concerns regarding the team’s pass rush and run defense.
- Bhayshul Tuten: The running back recently underwent finger surgery following an injury from the previous game. He is expected to miss several weeks, including the game against the Broncos. LeQuint Allen and DeeJay Dallas are anticipated to undertake larger roles in his absence.
- Jack Kiser: The rookie linebacker has been placed on injured reserve due to a hamstring injury, sidelining him for a minimum of four games and affecting the team’s depth at linebacker.
- Jalen McLeod: The rookie linebacker has had his 21-day practice window opened, allowing him to return to practice, but he remains on injured reserve and is not yet activated to the active roster.
Other Notable Players on the Injury Report
- Ezra Cleveland: The offensive guard has been limited in practice with a shoulder injury. His availability for the upcoming game is still uncertain.
- Walker Little: The offensive lineman, who missed the last game due to a concussion, fully participated in practice this week and is expected to return to action.
- Arik Armstead: The defensive tackle, dealing with a hand injury, participated fully in practice and is anticipated to play in the upcoming game.
- Travon Walker: The defensive end, managing a knee injury, was also a full participant in practice and is expected to contribute in the upcoming game.
Implications for the Upcoming Game
The missing presence of key defensive players like Hines-Allen, Tuten, and Kiser creates notable challenges for the Jaguars against the Broncos. As they prepare, the team will need to adapt its defensive strategies, drawing on the depth of its roster to sustain performance levels on the field. The return of players like Little, Armstead, and Walker offers a boost; however, the overall impact of these injuries will be a crucial factor in determining the outcome of the game.
Background Context
Currently, the Jaguars have been showcasing impressive performance levels this season, holding a strong 10-4 record and positioning themselves favorably within the AFC South division. However, as injuries have begun to take a toll, particularly on the defensive side, their ability to adapt and manage these issues will be essential in their ongoing playoff ambitions.
FAQ
What is the status of Josh Hines-Allen?
Josh Hines-Allen is listed as a non-participant due to an illness and a shoulder injury. His absence could affect the team’s pass rush and run defense.
How long is Bhayshul Tuten expected to be out?
Bhayshul Tuten underwent finger surgery following an injury sustained in the previous game. He is expected to miss several weeks, including the upcoming matchup against the Broncos. LeQuint Allen and DeeJay Dallas are anticipated to take on larger roles in his absence.
What is the situation with Jack Kiser?
Jack Kiser has been placed on injured reserve after suffering a hamstring injury. He will miss a minimum of four games, affecting the team’s depth at linebacker.
Is Jalen McLeod returning to play?
Jalen McLeod has had his 21-day practice window opened, allowing him to return to practice. However, he remains on injured reserve and has not yet been activated to the active roster.
Which other players are on the injury report?
Ezra Cleveland, Walker Little, Arik Armstead, and Travon Walker are also listed on the injury report, with varying levels of participation in practice. Their availability for the upcoming game is uncertain.
Key Features
| Player | Injury | Status | Expected Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Josh Hines-Allen | Illness and shoulder injury | Non-participant | Potential impact on pass rush and run defense |
| Bhayshul Tuten | Finger injury (underwent surgery) | Out for several weeks | LeQuint Allen and DeeJay Dallas to take on larger roles |
| Jack Kiser | Hamstring injury | Placed on injured reserve | Misses a minimum of four games, affecting linebacker depth |
| Jalen McLeod | Lower-body injury | Practice window opened | Remains on injured reserve, not yet activated to active roster |
| Ezra Cleveland | Shoulder injury | Limited participation in practice | Availability for upcoming game uncertain |
| Walker Little | Concussion | Full participation in practice | Expected to return to lineup |
| Arik Armstead | Hand injury | Full participation in practice | Anticipated to play in upcoming game |
| Travon Walker | Knee injury | Full participation in practice | Expected to play in upcoming game |
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