Raiders defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins is inactive against Broncos

As expected, Las Vegas Raiders’ starting defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins is inactive and won’t play Sunday at the Denver Broncos.

Hankins injured his hip in a home defeat to the Chicago Bears last Sunday. He missed all week of practice and was listed on the injury report as doubtful to play at Denver, So, this decision is not a surprise.

Hankins’ absence will not help Las Vegas’ run defense. He is an excellent run stuffer.

In a surprise, defensive tackle Darius Philon is inactive as well. He has been playing well. It is not known if he is injured or ill.

The Raiders will have defensive tackle Quinton Jefferson available. He missed one day of practice during the week with a back injury and was listed as questionable on the injury report. So with Hankins out, this is positive news for Las Vegas’ defense. Kendall Vickers was promoted off the practice squad Saturday and he is active, With Hankins and Philon out, defensive tackle Damion Square is active for the first time as a Raider.

Running back Peyton Barber is missing his second straight game with a toe injury.

Las Vegas’ other inactive players are: Rookie defensive end Malcolm Koonce, tackle Jackson Barton and No. 3 quarterback Nathan Peterman. Backup quarterback Marcus Mariota was activated from the injured reserve Saturday and he will backup starter Derek Carr and could be part of some short-yardage packages. He has been out since Week 1.