Broncos Activate Rookie RB Jonah Coleman Just in Time for Cardinals Matchup

The Denver Broncos are officially pulling rookie running back Jonah Coleman off injured reserve just in time for Sunday's matchup against the Arizona Cardinals. ESPN's Jeremy Fowler broke the news, confirming Denver is ready to inject some fresh legs into a backfield that desperately needs them.

High-ankle sprains are usually the kind of injury that makes a running back look like they are running in wet cement for two months. Coleman apparently missed that memo. After going down in Week 2 against the Jacksonville Jaguars—and somehow still grinding out 33 yards on a shredded ankle—he is back on the active roster after his mandatory four-game IR vacation.

"Jeremy Fowler reported on X: 'Broncos are activating RB Jonah Coleman before Sunday’s matchup with the Cardinals.'"

Denver is sitting at a surprisingly competent 4-2, and getting their fourth-round pick back is a massive boost. Before his ankle turned into a glow stick, Coleman logged 10 carries for 39 yards and a touchdown in his first two pro games.

With Tyler Badie officially ruled out this week due to a thumb injury, the runway is completely clear for the rookie to get immediate touches. Sean Payton is not exactly known for easing guys back in if he thinks he has a matchup advantage, and Arizona's defensive front has been generous all season.

The Cardinals are limping into this 2:05 p.m. kickoff at 2-4, and their defense is about to face a Denver team that suddenly has options. For anyone eyeing the prop markets, Coleman’s workload is the ultimate wild card. You never quite know how a rookie will split snaps coming off a month of rest, but the opportunity is wide open.

We will see exactly how much burst Coleman has left when the Broncos hit the field in the desert. If he looks anything like the guy who racked up over 1,000 yards at Washington last year, Denver might just run away with this one.