Broncos move Jordan Turner to NFI list as Gargiulo lands on PUP ahead of camp

Broncos place Jordan Turner on NFI list, Nick Gargiulo on PUP

The Denver Broncos announced Tuesday that linebacker Jordan Turner has been moved to the non‑football injury (NFI) reserve, while rookie offensive lineman Nick Gargiulo will start training camp on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. The moves were reported by multiple local outlets and confirm that the team will enter its preseason without two players who were expected to compete for depth spots.Yahoo Sports Broncos Wire Mile High Sports

Core developments

According to the team’s official roster update, Turner’s placement on the NFI list means he will be ineligible to practice or play until he is medically cleared, but the club retains his contract rights. The designation is used for injuries that occur outside of team activities, and the Broncos have not disclosed the specific nature of Turner’s condition.Broncos Wire

In a parallel move, the Broncos placed first‑round draft pick Nick Gargiulo on the PUP list. Gargiulo, an offensive tackle taken in the 2026 draft, suffered a lingering issue during the offseason that prevented him from passing the initial physical. The PUP designation allows the team to keep him on the roster while he rehabilitates, with the possibility of activation later in camp if he passes a series of evaluations.Mile High Sports Mile High Report

The two roster moves were announced together, signaling that the Broncos are adjusting their depth chart before the start of organized team activities (OTAs) and the upcoming training camp. Neither player will be counted against the 90‑man offseason roster limit while on the respective lists.Broncos Wire

Why it matters

The linebacker corps entered the offseason with a mix of veterans and younger players vying for roles in a defense that struggled to stop the run last season. Turner, a former fifth‑round pick who contributed on special teams and as a rotational pass‑rusher, was slated to compete for a backup spot behind established starters. Losing him, even temporarily, reduces the Broncos’ flexibility at a position where depth is crucial for defensive schemes that rotate players to keep them fresh.Yahoo Sports

On the offensive side, the Broncos drafted Gargiulo to address a long‑standing need for interior line protection. The team gave up significant yardage on the ground in 2025, and the rookie was expected to challenge for a backup spot behind the starting tackles. His absence from the first weeks of camp could delay his development and force the coaching staff to rely on veterans or other young players to fill the gap.Mile High Report

Both lists also have salary‑cap implications. Players on NFI and PUP continue to receive their contracts, but the team can allocate practice‑squad slots and other roster spots to healthy players, preserving flexibility as the preseason roster expands.Broncos Wire

Differing viewpoints and reactions

Team insiders, speaking on condition of anonymity, expressed optimism that Turner’s injury is not season‑ending and that he could return to practice within weeks. They noted that the Broncos have a history of successfully reintegrating players from the NFI list once they complete a tailored rehab program.Yahoo Sports

Conversely, some analysts highlighted the risk that the timing of the injuries could hamper the Broncos’ ability to evaluate talent during camp. One veteran reporter suggested that the loss of a rookie lineman like Gargiulo at the outset of camp may force the offensive line coach to simplify protection schemes until the rookie is cleared.Mile High Sports

Fans on social media expressed mixed feelings. A portion of the fanbase voiced concern about the depth of the linebacker unit, especially after a previous season in which injuries forced the Broncos to rely heavily on backup players. Others were more forgiving, pointing out that the NFI designation is often used for minor issues that resolve quickly.

What’s next for Denver

As the Broncos move into OTAs next week, the coaching staff will focus on installing new defensive packages and offensive line concepts. Turner’s status will be monitored daily, and the team will provide an update if he is cleared to begin practicing. If his recovery proceeds as expected, he could be activated from the NFI list before the first preseason game, allowing him to contribute on special teams and in rotational defensive snaps.Broncos Wire

Gargiulo’s rehabilitation will be overseen by the team’s medical staff, with the goal of moving him to the active roster as soon as he passes the PUP criteria. The Broncos have indicated that they will give him a full evaluation during the first week of camp, a timeline that aligns with league rules governing the PUP list.Mile High Report

In the meantime, the Broncos will rely on other linebackers—such as veterans Randy Gregory and rookie JoJo Ward—to fill the void left by Turner’s absence. On the offensive line, the team may give additional reps to backup tackles like Miles Smith and to versatile interior linemen who can step in while Gargiulo recovers.Mile High Sports

Overall, the roster adjustments underscore the fluid nature of NFL preseason preparation, where injuries—both football‑related and otherwise—can reshape a team’s plans at a moment’s notice. Denver’s ability to adapt will be tested in the weeks leading up to the regular season, and the performance of the players who step into the lineup will likely influence the Broncos’ strategic outlook for 2026.