Jordan Norwood has taken over the Broncos’ No. 3-receiver position through two games with his snaps and production.
An impressive feat for a guy who before this season hadn’t played in a regular-season game since 2012.
“With what we’re asking out of that spot, he’s earned his keep. He’s a smart player you can move him all over the place,” coach Gary Kubiak said.
It’s hard to see the ball with Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders on the field, but Norwood has five catches for 39 yards. He’s been on the field for nearly all of the Broncos’ three- or four-receiver sets.
That No. 3-receiver role was supposed to go to second-year wide out Cody Latimer. All offseason, coaches said they expected Latimer to step in and flourish.
“He’s really trying to get after it. His role may be increased, it may not,” offensive coordinator Rick Dennison said. “We’ll get the guys out there that deserve to be out there to play and make plays.”
The Broncos’ 2014 second-round pick has fallen behind both Norwood and veteran receiver Andre Caldwell.
Latimer shined left and right throughout training camp but didn’t make many plays in the preseason. And in turn, he has failed to make a dent in the regular season.
Latimer only played three snaps in the Broncos’ win over the Chiefs last Thursday. And he’s yet to catch a pass this season.
“He’s doing fine. Hopefully, he gets in a spot to make some plays,” Kubiak said. “His time will come.”
Injury updates
• Cornerback Aqib Talib (illness) returned to practice Thursday after being sent home early Wednesday.
• Also returning to practice was cornerback Kayvon Webster (ankle), who participated in limited drills after being out Monday and Wednesday.
• Safety Omar Bolden (foot), guard Louis Vasquez (knee) and defensive end Kenny Anunike (knee) all practiced Thursday on a limited basis.
If Bolden is unable to go Sunday night versus Detroit, Andre Caldwell is expected to be the primary kick returner for the second straight week.
Cameron Wolfe: 303-954-1891, cwolfe@denverpost.com or @CameronWolfe
