Just days after signing him to the practice squad, the Denver Broncos have elevated tight end Marcedes Lewis to the Week 9 gameday roster, along with wide receiver Michael Bandy. The 41-year-old Lewis is playing in his 20th NFL season, originally entering the NFL in 2006 as a Jacksonville Jaguars first-round draft pick.

I knew he’d been training, I knew he’s in great shape,” Head Coach Sean Payton said. “He’s a tremendous blocker. … I’m glad he’s here. He’s a tremendous leader."

“The #Broncos worked out 41-year-old free agent TE Marcedes Lewis today,” NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reported on X on October 28. Lewis has 437 receptions for 5,115 yards and 40 touchdowns in his career.

Jan 21, 2018; Foxborough, MA, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars tight end Marcedes Lewis (89) celebrates after catching a touchdown pass against the New England Patriots in the second quarter of the AFC Championship Game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images / Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Broncos linebacker Justin Strnad had his appeal hearing on Tuesday on the $15,486 fine he received last week for making contact with referee Brad Allen during his team’s frenetic, on-field victory celebration as Wil Lutz’s field goal with no time remaining lifted the Broncos to an improbable 33-32 comeback against the New York Giants 10 days ago.

After losing Nate Adkins to a knee injury, the Broncos put in claims for tight ends Brendan Bates and Ben Sims on Monday, but both players were awarded to teams higher in the NFL's waiver wire order. Denver then brought in a 41-year-old veteran for a visit on Tuesday, according to the NFL's transaction wire.

The Houston Texans will have receivers Nico Collins and Christian Kirk back to place Denver, and Woody Marks and Dalton Schultz on track as well.

Among those who won't be on the field for the Texans, no major surprises of note. Running back Dameon Pierce will once again be a healthy scratch as he has been for a good chunk o