If the Broncos’ secondary is looking to make a statement, albeit a preseason one, against their aerial nemesis Peyton Manning on Saturday night, they might have to do it at half strength.
Several of the Broncos’ defensive backs were noticeably absent from Monday’s workout, including star left cornerback Champ Bailey.
He has missed Denver’s two preseason games and hasn’t participated in a full practice in more than two weeks. Coach Mike Shanahan on Monday continued to label the injury as a “tweak.”
Shanahan said there is no worry the injury has significantly worsened, although Bailey has said he has aggravated it. Bailey is expected to play Sept. 11 in the regular-season opener at Miami. Bailey has not missed a regular-season game in his six seasons. If Bailey practices this week, he may play against Manning and the Indianapolis Colts at Invesco Field at Mile High. Manning threw for 457 yards in a 49-24 victory Jan. 9 over the Broncos in the first round of the playoffs.
Joining Bailey on the sideline Monday were safety John Lynch (soreness), rookie Darrent Williams (knee) and cornerback Roc Alexander (hamstring). Alexander, who has been bothered by his injury for about a week, started practice but then was taken out.
Shanahan said he didn’t think any of those injuries were serious. Sam Brandon took Lynch’s place. Lynch is expected to practice today. Third-round pick Domonique Foxworth worked with the first unit in place of Bailey and Williams.
Also, tight end Nate Jackson (slight hamstring tear) likely will not play Saturday. He is expected to be back for the preseason finale at Arizona on Sept. 2. Defensive tackle Mario Fatafehi, who suffered an MCL sprain Aug. 6, was at practice Monday and is expected to fully participate Wednesday. Defensive end Courtney Brown, out since Aug. 4 with a dislocated elbow, is expected to be back next week and play against the Cardinals.
Rookie Brandon Browner’s right broken hand likely will eventually land him on injured reserve. Running back Cecil Sapp (hamstring) and offensive lineman Tyson Clabo (ankle) also didn’t practice.
Shanahan said rookie running back Maurice Clarett (groin injury) is looking healthy and hasn’t suffered a setback.
Rice to return
Shanahan excused Jerry Rice from practice Monday and today so he could tend to a family matter. Rice will return Wednesday and is expected to play against the Colts. With Rice out, Darius Watts, Charlie Adams and Todd Devoe are getting more practice time.
Plummer likes backs
Mike Anderson, Tatum Bell and Ron Dayne got extensive practice time Monday. Anderson still leads the competition, with Dayne and Bell performing well. The three combined for 188 yards on 34 carries Saturday night.
Quarterback Jake Plummer, who has backed Anderson all camp, likes the mix.
“I’ve been leaning toward Anderson, because he’s a veteran and I’ve been with him,” Plummer said. “But Tatum is doing a good job pushing him, and Ron Dayne is pushing him as well.”
Footnotes
Lynch’s hit on 49ers tight end Billy Bajema on Saturday night will be reviewed by the NFL. Lynch may not be fined because film shows he led with his shoulder and Bajema was running upfield. … With Williams hurting, Adams may get more return chances against the Colts. He had three punt returns for 77 yards against the 49ers. … Brad- lee Van Pelt remained the No. 2 quarterback and appears headed toward winning the job, although the determination likely won’t be made for a week or two.
Bill Williamson can be reached at 303-820-5450 or bwilliamson@denverpost.com.
