Patriots and Broncos: 5 Key Roster Connections Before AFC Championship Game
The upcoming AFC Championship Game between the New England Patriots and Denver Broncos will showcase some intriguing roster connections. Familiar faces from both teams will step onto the field, with players and coaches having ties to both franchises. Here’s a look at five key roster connections to watch as the game unfolds.
Key Roster Connections Before the AFC Championship Game
1. Jarrett Stidham, Quarterback
Jarrett Stidham, a quarterback for the Broncos, has a notable history with both teams. Selected by the Patriots in the fourth round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Stidham started his NFL journey with New England. He completed 24 of 48 passes for 270 yards, recording two touchdowns and four interceptions during his time there.
After brief stints and a two-year deal worth $10 million in Denver, Stidham is set to lead the Broncos following a surgery to repair a broken ankle suffered by the starting quarterback.
2. Lil’Jordan Humphrey, Wide Receiver
Lil’Jordan Humphrey joined the NFL as an undrafted rookie with the New Orleans Saints in 2019. Since then, he has played 41 games and made 55 receptions totaling 556 yards with five touchdowns for the Broncos. His previous experience includes a season with the Patriots, where he caught 16 passes for 295 yards and three touchdowns in 2022.
3. Alex Singleton, Linebacker
Broncos linebacker Alex Singleton has had a remarkable journey in the NFL. He played for the Eagles before joining Denver, where he has accumulated 506 tackles in 53 games. Singleton briefly trained with the Patriots as an undrafted rookie in 2015, marking a well-traveled career that includes accolades in both the NFL and CFL.
4. Trent Sherfield Sr., Wide Receiver
Trent Sherfield brings more than 120 games of experience to the practice squad of the Patriots after his time with multiple teams. The 29-year-old has recorded 89 catches for 1,034 yards since entering the league. Sherfield signed a two-year deal with the Broncos prior to joining New England, where he aims to contribute valuable experience.
5. Yasir Durant, Offensive Tackle
Yasir Durant began his career as an undrafted free agent with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2020. He joined the Patriots from a trade, ultimately playing in seven games. After spending time in New Orleans and a short stint with the Broncos, Durant has returned to the Patriots looking to solidify his role.
Game Outlook
The AFC Championship Game is set for Sunday at 3 p.m. ET at Empower Field. With these connections, the matchup promises to be both exciting and meaningful for players past and present, as they demonstrate their skills on one of football’s biggest stages.
