Broncos coach Mike Shanahan had two words to describe Courtney Brown after a pivotal Wednesday practice.
“Full speed,” Shanahan said of the veteran defensive end, who is attempting to work his way back into the lineup after missing more than a month because of a dislocated left elbow.
Shanahan said he hopes Brown will be able to play a role Sunday when the Broncos open the season at Miami. Brown has practiced for more than a week, but his work Wednesday was his most extensive since being injured Aug. 4 and missing the team’s 4-0 preseason.
Before practice, Brown was taking a cautious stance.
“I feel great, but I just want to take it one day at a time,” Brown said.
Even if the former Penn State star plays Sunday, Ebenezer Ekuban is likely to start against the Dolphins.
“Courtney is going to need time to work back in,” said Ekuban, who worked with the No. 1 defense at right end in place of Brown during the preseason. “I’m planning to do as much as I can in the meantime.”
Terrell takes roster spot
The Broncos completed their 53-man roster by signing wide receiver David Terrell, a first-round pick by Chicago in the 2001 draft. Cut by New England last week, Terrell takes the roster spot that opened when Jerry Rice retired. It is believed Terrell received a three-year deal.
Terrell, 26, had 128 catches with the Bears before signing with the Patriots in the offseason. It may take a few weeks before he earns playing time, but the Broncos say they believe the former Michigan star will be a good fit.
“Coach called me and was upfront with me, told me what I could do for them,” Terrell said. “For me, to hear it from him straight out of his mouth, honestly, it was big for me.”
Hurricane hits home
New practice squad quarterback Kliff Kingsbury, signed by Denver on Tuesday, would love to send for his belongings. If he could.
Kingsbury was cut by the New Orleans Saints on Aug. 28, the day much of the city was evacuated as it braced for Hurricane Katrina. He was stuck in traffic for hours as he fled the city.
Kingsbury has no idea the condition of his apartment in New Orleans or his belongings.
“One of these days I might find out what happened to them,” he said. “I have no idea if any of it is still there.”
The Broncos will accept donations for the American Red Cross’ Hurricane Katrina relief effort at the team’s Sept. 18 home opener against San Diego.
Footnote
Tight end Nate Jackson (hamstring) did not practice Wednesday.
Bill Williamson can be reached at 303-820-5450 or bwilliamson@denverpost.com.
