Broncos rule out three offensive starters for Sunday's game vs. Chargers

ENGLEWOOD -- The Broncos will be down three offensive starters on Sunday against the Los Angeles Chargers.

Denver on Friday ruled out wide receiver Josh Reynolds, tackle Alex Palczewski and center Luke Wattenberg for the game at Empower Field at Mile High. Reynolds had minor finger surgery and will be out at least one game. Palczewski and Wattenberg both have ankle injuries, with Palczewski telling The Denver Gazette he has a high right ankle sprain.

The Broncos also listed as questionable running back Audric Estime (ankle) and cornerback Damarri Mathis (ankle), who are both on injured reserve and were designated for return Wednesday. Both were full participants all week in practice but only can play if activated Saturday. Estime is a leading candidate to be activated and Wattenberg a leading candidate to go on injured reserve to open up a roster spot.

Lil'Jordan Humphrey is the leading candidate to start in place of Reynolds. Palczewski will be replaced by Matt Peart and Wattenberg by Alex Forsyth. All three players ruled out were hurt in last Sunday's 34-18 win over Las Vegas.