Denver Broncos receiver Wes Welker was a limited participant in Wednesday’s practice leading up to the Bills’ game. (Jack Dempsey, Associated Press file)
December defines the grueling nature of the NFL season. The schedules shrink, but bumps and bruises increase. Entering Sunday’s game, the Broncos continue to deal with injuries to key players.
Julius Thomas began practice as a hopeful full participant, but spent time working through issues with his left ankle while talking to the training staff. The scene was similar to last week when he said he had good days, but not enough to be cleared to play.
Jacob Tamme and Wes Welker joined Thomas in limited duty. Tamme left Sunday’s game against the Chiefs briefly with an undisclosed injury. Welker played 57 of 83 plays in the Kansas City victory. Tamme saw time on 24 plays.
Denver appeared to receive some good news with cornerback Aqib Talib going through all drills with the defensive backs. He missed last week’s game with a hamstring injury. He said on his weekly radio show on Tuesday that he’s hopeful of playing against the Bills.
Running backs Ronnie Hillman (sprained left foot) and Montee Ball (right groin) worked on the side with the training staff. Both are aiming to return this season with Hillman possibly available for the Chargers game in two weeks. Also, linebacker Lerentee McCray was not at practice during the session open to the media.
