Broncos safety Justin Simmons returned to practice Wednesday after not playing in the team’s 70-20 loss to the Miami Dolphins on Sunday while recovering from a hip injury.
Simmons, who was a limited participant along with wide receiver Jerry Jeudy (knee), said he’s feeling “a lot better.” He did not commit to playing against the Chicago Bears on Sunday but said “I’m trying my best to get there.”
Simmons did not practice all of last week, only stretching on the side field during the media viewing period. Second-year safety Delarrin Turner-Yell started in his place against the Dolphins, who recorded 10 touchdowns and 726 total offensive yards in a franchise-worst performance for the Denver defense.
Simmons might not have been enough to prevent Sunday’s bloodbath, but his return would certainly help a struggling secondary. Through three games, the Broncos are ranked 29th in passing yards allowed (280.7 per game) while opponents have a 133.6 quarterback rating against them.
While Simmons returned, inside linebacker Josey Jewell (hip/groin) did not practice. Jewell left Sunday’s game in the second quarter before the team ruled him out due to a groin injury. Outside linebacker Frank Clark (hip) and defensive tackle Mike Purcell (ribs) also missed Wednesday’s practice, as all three players were working on the side field.
Jewell’s injury is significant. He is second on the team in tackles with 19, trailing fellow inside linebacker Alex Singleton (21). Rookie inside linebacker Drew Sanders took Jewell’s place, playing in 44 defensive snaps. Sanders played a combined four defensive snaps against the Raiders and Commanders.
Last season, Jewell missed four of the first seven games due to injuries. In 2021, he only played in two games due to a torn pectoral muscle.
Sanders could be in line to make his first career start if Jewell is unable to play against Chicago. Sanders, a third-round pick, impressed the coaching staff during training camp and OTAs with his versatility and pass rush ability.
Even though Sanders is an inside linebacker, he also played the edge in college. During Sanders’ lone season at Arkansas, he totaled 103 tackles (13 ½ for loss) and 9 ½ sacks.
Broncos to host former Saints wide receiver
Broncos will host a visit for former New Orleans Saints wide receiver Tre’Quan Smith, a source told The Post.
Smith spent five seasons with the Saints and was coached by Sean Payton for four. The veteran wideout was released by the Saints from the injured reserve Tuesday after he missed most of training camp with a groin injury.
Smith has 131 catches for 1,764 yards and 18 touchdowns in 66 career games.
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