The Denver Broncos could be set for good news regarding a dynamic playmaker and All-Pro in wide receiver and return specialist Marvin Mims Jr. However, the most encouraging sign that suggests Mims may be back is another player’s exit.
Denver is in the catbird seat in the AFC West and tied for the best record in the NFL at 8-2, with a divisional showdown against the Kansas City Chiefs up next.
Adding Mims back into the mix could be exactly what the Broncos need at the perfect time.
“Broncos have released WR/returner Michael Bandy, per source,” 9News’ Mike Klis posted on X on November 11. “Hope to bring him back on practice squad if he clears waivers tomorrow.
“Cutting Bandy would indicate Marvin Mims Jr. has cleared concussion protocol and will be back for Chiefs’ game. Some much-needed positive health news for Broncos, even if it’s tough for veteran Bandy, who had 16-yd catch, 5 punt returns for 29 yds in 2 gms as Mims replacement.”
Bandy is a former undrafted free agent who has been with the Broncos for three seasons.
The Broncos added Bandy to the active roster for Week 9 against the Houston Texans and Week 10 against the Las Vegas Raiders, with Mims sidelined due to a concussion.
The Denver Post’s Luca Evans posted on X on November 6 that the “Broncos miss Marvin Mims Jr. bad,” as they faced the Raiders. Evans also cited Mims’ positive impact when on the field, despite logging fewer than 50% of the team’s offensive snaps when healthy.
“I think Marvin Mims is quietly extremely important to this #Broncos offense,” Evans posted on November 7.
“They’ve missed him significantly in Sean Payton’s personnel groupings the past two weeks.”
The Broncos officially announced they placed linebacker Karene Reid on injured reserve and released offensive lineman and fellow rookie undrafted free agent Marques Cox from their practice squad, along with their other moves, in a post on X.
“Feels like Marvin Mims opens up a lot for #Broncos’ offense when he’s in the game because defenses have to account for his speed + where he can line up, even if he’s not touching the ball,” Evans said in another post. “Efficiency stats back it up.”
Mims, 23, has 22 receptions for 234 yards and 1 touchdown on 32 targets this season. He also has seven carries for 54 yards and 1 TD.
That underscores his versatility as an offensive weapon as well as a dynamic kick returner.
Bandy, who turns 28 in December, was previously with the Los Angeles Chargers. He has caught one pass for 16 yards this season. The Broncos had to make a move to accommodate their other roster decision on the day.
The Broncos still have Courtland Sutton, Troy Franklin, Pat Bryant, and Trent Sherfield on the roster.
Mims’ return is expected, but not yet confirmed by the Broncos. They also reworked their offensive line group on a busy off day.
They signed former Chiefs offensive lineman Geron Christian.
“Geron Christian now on Broncos’ 53-man roster as he was signed away from Cowboys’ practice squad,” Klis posted on November 11. “With [Alex] Palczewski moved to LG, Christian gives the Broncos 4 OTs along with [Garett] Bolles, [Mike] McGlinchey, [Frank] Crum.”
The Broncos had to shift Palczewski to LG. They placed starter Ben Powers on injured reserve due to a torn bicep. The Broncos hope to have Powers sometime in December.
In a heartwarming and unexpected move that’s sending shockwaves through both the entertainment and sports worlds, actor Earl Tywone Stevens has partnered with the San Francisco 49ers to do something truly extraordinary for veterans across the Bay Area. While the actor is no stranger to charity, this time he’s gone above and beyond, donating a staggering $1 MILLION to ensure veterans and their families have access to discounted tickets at 49ers games for the rest of the 2025 season.
In an exclusive statement, Stevens said, “The sacrifices our veterans have made can never truly be repaid, but I hope this can give them a moment of joy, a chance to experience the magic of 49ers football with the respect and honor they deserve.”
This groundbreaking donation is part of a larger initiative between Stevens and the 49ers, aimed at giving veterans the opportunity to attend home games at Levi’s Stadium, free from financial barriers. Stevens personally worked with the 49ers’ ownership and community outreach department to create a program that would offer discounted tickets specifically for veterans, ensuring they can experience the excitement of live football at no cost to them.
Sources close to the actor reveal that Stevens was deeply moved by the struggles that many veterans face, particularly those living in the San Francisco area. “I’ve always admired the veterans here, and I wanted to find a way to give back to them,” Stevens explained.
This generous gesture is already being hailed as one of the most impactful community-driven actions in NFL history. By focusing on veterans—many of whom often feel overlooked—Stevens and the 49ers are ensuring that those who served this country can feel the pride and excitement of being part of the 49ers faithful.
Local veterans’ organizations and nonprofits are already working tirelessly to distribute the discounted tickets, making sure that every eligible veteran has a chance to attend a game. The program has already been called “a game-changer” by many veterans who have been able to attend games they never thought they would experience.
“This is a gift that means more than words can express,” said one local veteran. “Earl Tywone Stevens has shown that he truly understands the importance of honoring our service. This is a moment we’ll cherish forever.”
With the holiday season approaching and the 49ers pushing for a playoff spot, this initiative is sure to bring more than just discounted tickets—it’s offering a symbol of gratitude and recognition for those who have given so much.
Earl Tywone Stevens’ initiative proves that, while sports are about winning on the field, the true victories happen off it—when communities come together and show their unwavering support for the people who have served and sacrificed for their country.