Who Should I Start? Troy Franklin or Jordan Whittington

Sunday, January 25, 1:33 PM

Denver Broncos wide receiver Troy Franklin (hamstring) is officially inactive for the AFC Championship game on Sunday against the visiting New England Patriots, according to Mike Klis of 9 News. Franklin injured his hamstring early in the Divisional Round win against the Buffalo Bills and never returned. He was limited in practice all week, but the Broncos weren't comfortable making him active. Although Franklin saw his role decline late in the year, it's a notable loss for a Denver offense that is forced to start backup quarterback Jarrett Stidman against New England with Bo Nix (ankle) out for the rest of the season. The second-year wideout from Oregon was the Broncos' second leading receiver during the regular season with 65 catches, 709 yards, and six touchdowns on 104 targets. Marvin Mims Jr., rookie Pat Bryant, and Lil'Jordan Humphrey will need to step up behind Courtland Sutton against a solid Patriots defense on Sunday.

Sunday, January 25, 9:53 PM

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Jordan Whittington (chest) returned to Sunday's NFC Championship game during the fourth quarter. He had exited in the third quarter and was initially listed as questionable before being cleared to re-enter. Even though he climbed further up the depth chart with Tutu Atwell (coach's decision) inactive, Whittington had not been targeted prior to his departure. However, he did contribute on special teams with five kick returns for a total of 116 yards. On offense, he and Konata Mumpfield will occupy depth roles behind Puka Nacua and Davante Adams in the waning minutes of the fourth quarter.