Peyton Manning and the Broncos returned to practice on Wednesday. No helmets were required as the team continues to balance rest and recovery down the stretch. (John Leyba, The Denver Post)
The calendar and the training room can dictate practice this time of year. With three games remaining, a common opponent in San Diego and the bye week occurring two months ago, the Broncos practiced without helmets on Wednesday.
Wednesday and Thursday represent big preparation days, but sometimes more can be accomplished through light reps, preserving bodies for game day. Tight end Julius Thomas participated with his position group in all drills as he attempts to gain confidence in his injured left ankle. He has missed the past three games, though he was active last Sunday. He hopes to play.
Receiver Demaryius Thomas, who caught two passes for 11 yards last week in the win over Buffalo, watched the workout. He suffered a right ankle bruise during team drills last week when he was cleated. There’s no concern about his availability, his absence viewed as a way of providing extra rest. Wes Welker, who received a “Veteran’s Day” last week, was also a spectator. Weakside linebacker Danny Trevathan continues practicing and is eligible to return from the injured reserve this Sunday.
Ronnie Hillman participated in a few team drills, working his way back slowly from a foot injury. Running back Montee Ball remained on the side with the strength coach. No return date has been set for the pair, but for now the final regular-season game against Oakland appears the most realistic.
Rounding up the injury report, tackle Paul Cornick (foot sprain) and rookie receiver Cody Latimer (concussion) did not practice, while Quinton Carter (knee) returned after missing last Sunday’s game.
