Report: Broncos expected to activate All-Pro S Justin Simmons vs. Chargers

Simmons suffered a thigh injury after a Week 1 loss in Seattle. He was placed on injured reserve, forcing him to miss four games. 

Simmons' return comes at the right time for the Broncos as injuries have diminished their secondary. 

Defensive back Ronald Darby will miss the rest of the season due to a torn ACL. Additionally, the Broncos ruled out safety Caden Sterns with a hip injury. 

A depleted secondary is not ideal especially when lining up against Pro Bowl quarterback Justin Herbert. Herbert pilots one of the best offenses in the NFL. The Chargers are ranked fourth in total offense. 

Getting Simmons can mitigate Los Angeles' dynamic playmaking; it also provides a stable presence. Simmons is a seven-year veteran and a team captain.

The 2-3 Broncos need strong leadership. Their early dysfunction left some wondering if they're already starting to sink.  

Simmons tried to steer past this motivating his teammates, calling the matchup against the Chargers "a must-win game," in a Thursday news conference.

Emphasizing the urgency of a pivotal division game is the right move. The Broncos can still overcome massive scrutiny bouncing back into the playoff race.

Perhaps, the star igniting a burning desire to upset Los Angeles will help Denver steer past this turbulent point and guide them to more victories.