Dondrea Tillman Missed Consecutive Broncos Practices
The linebacker was the only player on the 53-man roster absent from practice this week.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Football
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Denver Broncos linebacker Dondrea Tillman did not participate in team practice for two consecutive days. As the team prepares for a game against the San Francisco 49ers, Tillman remains the only active roster member to miss training this week.
Why it matters
The team must evaluate its defensive depth ahead of the upcoming matchup against San Francisco. The Broncos currently maintain three edge rushers on the practice squad to help mitigate potential roster gaps.
The Broncos carry 53 players on their roster and currently utilize four active edge rushers. Three additional edge rushers are held on the practice squad to bolster the position group.
The players
Dondrea Tillman
He is an active linebacker currently on the Denver Broncos 53-man roster.
Jonathon Cooper
He is a Denver Broncos player currently placed on the Commissioner's exempt list following charges related to a domestic-violence incident.
Zach Allen
He is a defensive player for the Denver Broncos who returned to full practice participation.
D.J. Jones
He is a defensive player for the Denver Broncos who participated in practice on a limited basis.
The details
While Tillman remained sidelined, teammates D.J. Jones returned as a limited participant and Zach Allen resumed a full workload on Thursday. Meanwhile, Jonathon Cooper continues to serve on the Commissioner's exempt list while awaiting trial.
Timeline
August 31: Jonathon Cooper entered a not-guilty plea.
October 1: Tillman missed practice alongside other players.
October 2: Tillman missed practice for a second consecutive day.
October 4: The Broncos are scheduled to play the San Francisco 49ers.
November 10: Jonathon Cooper's trial is set to begin.
Season Trajectory
Jonathon Cooper remains on the Commissioner's exempt list, a mechanism that keeps players off the active roster while legal proceedings are ongoing. This absence forces the Broncos to rely on depth players as they attempt to balance their defensive rotation during the regular season.
The absence of Tillman puts additional pressure on the remaining edge rusher rotation for the upcoming game against San Francisco. Fantasy managers and fans should monitor the final injury report to see if he is available for the Sunday matchup.
The takeaway
The team's ability to adapt to sudden changes in personnel is a critical factor for success in the NFL. Maintaining a strong practice squad is essential for teams like the Broncos to remain competitive throughout a long season.
What happens next
Jonathon Cooper's trial regarding his domestic-violence charges is scheduled to commence on November 10.
Further reading
For more information on team updates, visit Denver Football.
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