BOOKER EXPECTS TO BE CLEARED FOR RETURN SOON
Broncos running back Devontae Booker, out since undergoing surgery to repair a broken wrist in July, believes he’ll soon be cleared to return to practice.
“I just got to get a CT scan Friday, and then I’ll be ready,” Booker said.
Booker suffered the injury during organized team activities in June but initially believed he had sprained the wrist. It wasn’t until he reported for training camp that an X-ray revealed a fracture.
The Broncos moved Booker to the active roster last week, pointing to a return early in the regular season. But the second-year running back from Utah hasn’t pinpointed an exact return date.
“I’m not sure yet,” he said. “It all depends on how much I’m doing out there with my running backs coach (Eric Studesville) and getting back into football shape.”
Booker’s rehab moved slowly at first. While he still had stitches, he had to prevent sweating to allow the area to heal. Booker said he has picked up his conditioning during the past two weeks and is pain free.
The Broncos showcased their depth at running back during the preseason in Booker’s absence. C.J. Anderson and Jamaal Charles sit atop the depth chart and rookie De’Angelo Henderson also had strong moments during training camp and made the roster. The Broncos also added former Buffalo Bills running back Jonathan Williams to their practice squad Tuesday. Broncos coach Vance Joseph called Williams “very explosive.”
“We got a bunch of dangerous guys in our room,” Booker said. “I just can’t wait to get back there on the field with them and help our team out.”
Defensive line update.
Defensive ends Derek Wolfe (ankle) and Jared Crick (back), who suffered injuries during back-to-back days in the middle of August, participated in their second straight practice.
Joseph on Wednesday provided an update on their status for Monday night’s opener against the Los Angeles Chargers.
“It looks OK so far,” Joseph said. “Obviously, it’s a long week. It’s an extra two days so I’m not sure how the week is going to end. Right now, they look fine.”
Defensive end Zach Kerr, meanwhile, still has not returned to practice. He suffered a bruised knee during the Broncos’ preseason game against the Green Bay Packers on Aug. 26.
“I’m not sure there,” Joseph said when asked if Kerr would play against the Chargers. “He’s pushing along. He’s getting better every day. I’ll know more Thursday and Friday.”
Broncos name captains.
Joseph announced that linebacker Von Miller, cornerback Aqib Talib, quarterback Trevor Siemian, wide receiver Demaryius Thomas and kicker Brandon McManus were elected captains in a vote by their teammates.
“To be a captain is a lot of responsibility,” Joseph said. “I expect great leadership, work every day. I want those guys to be on every day.”
Footnotes.
Wide receiver Demaryius Thomas (groin) returned to practice after missing Monday’s workout and “looked great,” Joseph said. … Quarterback Paxton Lynch attended Wednesday’s practice and was still sporting a sling to protect his injured right throwing shoulder. … Joseph said he still hasn’t decided whether Max Garcia or Allen Barbre will start at left guard against the Chargers.