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Broncos Demaryius Thomas doing 'pretty good' according to coach Kubiak

Bennie Fowler's return could provide depth
Posted at 11:36 AM, Sep 12, 2016
and last updated 2016-09-12 14:19:43-04

CENTENNIAL, Colo. -- Broncos coach Gary Kubiak remains cautiously optimistic Demaryius Thomas will play Sunday. He said the receiver's hip has improved.

"He had a could of days off with some good treatment and could have practiced (Monday)," Kubiak said. "I expect him to practice Wednesday."

On the Broncos' third possession last Thursday, Thomas caught a first-down pass and was pulled awkwardly out of bounds. Trainers treated Thomas, but he played 76 percent of the offensive snaps, returning to the game. Thomas underwent an MRI on his hip and his results were sent for a second opinion, according to ESPN.

Thomas reported to training camp at 222 pounds -- his lightest since high school. It improved his conditioning and route running. Teammates noticed his dedication, voting him the offensive captain. 

While Thomas ranked fifth in the NFL last season with nine drops, his production has been steady. Over the past four years, he has averaged 101 catches and 10 touchdowns. In the season opener, Thomas caught four passes for 48 yards. He also excelled blocking in the running game, looking more comfortable in his second year in the Broncos' offense.

Bennie Fowler, out since breaking a bone in his right elbow in the preseason opener, practiced Monday. He is listed as Thomas' backup, and could provide depth if available. He's on track to play, something Fowler predicted could happen last week.

Kudos for Davis, C.J., Latimer

The eye in the sky doesn't lie. The coaching staff awards players of the game after viewing the film, a prized honor. Running back C.J. Anderson (offense), inside linebacker Todd Davis (defense) and Cody Latimer (special teams). Anderson finished with 139 total yards and two touchdowns. Anderson's fast start is reflected in his statistics. He didn't score a touchdown last season until Nov. 1 and failed to deliver a receiving score. Davis took over Brandon Marshall's spot with Marshall shifting to the departed Danny Trevathan's position. Davis played 46 snaps and led the team with seven tackles. He also recorded a half sack. Latimer finished with two tackles in coverage. 

Footnotes

Ty Sambrailo (dislocated elbow) continues to improve and is ready to compete for more playing time. He's the swing tackle and guard. Michael Schofield remains the starter at right guard -- "He's earned it," Kubiak said -- but Sambrailo will have an opportunity to push him for playing time. ... Kubiak stood up for his defense when asked again if he felt the Broncos were dirty. "We play hard," he said. ... Why is Andy Janovich a factor as a rookie? The Broncos fullback has added weight and remained as physical as ever. 

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