Broncos Demaryius Thomas limited in practice, but on track to play against Colts

CENTENNIAL, Colo. -- Demaryius Thomas was limited at practice Wednesday with a left hip injury. He participated in roughly one-third of the plays, but didn't appear to go full speed during the media viewing period. The wide receiver remains sore after hurting his leg when tackled awkwardly on the Broncos' third drive last Thursday.

Coach Gary Kubiak remains optimistic Thomas will play on Sunday when the Broncos host the Indianapolis Colts.  

"He looked OK with what we asked him to do. We are going to take it a step at a time this week. We had him set for certain plays in practice. He’s on course to make it to Sunday," Kubiak said. "Today was a step in the right direction."

Bennie Fowler, who broke a bone in his right elbow a month ago, hopes to play. He practiced in individual drills Wednesday, but was not permitted for team work. He called watching the opener an "awful" experience.

"You want to be out there with your guys," Fowler said. "It was hard."

Regardless of Thomas' health, Fowler knows he must view his situation in a vacuum. He has taken every step allowed by the medical staff after X-Rays cleared him to begin physical activity.

"I was out there (last) Friday catching passes," he said. "But I know I can't rush it. I have to see what coach Kubiak says. If it was up to me I would already be out there."

QB Spotlight not too bright

Trevor Siemian played efficiently in the Broncos' season-opening win, completing 18 of 26 passes for 178 yards for one touchdown and two interceptions. The film reinforced he must eliminate turnovers, especially those near the red zone. But teammates were impressed that the moment wasn't too big for Siemian. After his first pick, Siemian delivered a touchdown drive on the next possession. Fowler, who received plenty of reps with Siemian last year, figured Siemian couldn't handle the spotlight because of, um, Miley Cyrus.

"I saw last it last year against Seattle (in the preseason). They were playing some Miley Cyrus right before he went in, and he was like, 'Hey guys check out this song.' Then he threw me a pass 60 yards down field," Fowler said.

Colt coach Chuck Pagano left impressed with Siemian after viewing the film.

"He's mature beyond his years," he said.

Footnotes

The Broncos were not alone in getting fined. Carolina offensive guard Trai Turner was docked $9,115 for taunting, according to ESPN.

Broncos defensive lineman Derek Wolfe remains hopeful the Panthers offensive linemen will be fined for targeting. "If not, then what's the deterrent?" said Wolfe, who injured his neck in the victory.

Colts quarterback Andrew Luck said he doesn't view the Broncos defense as dirty. They knocked him out of the season in the eighth game after lacerating his kidney on a combo high-low tackle. "I wouldn't necessarily agree with that. They play hard, are well coached and everybody is entitled to their own opinion. They do a good job. They really do."

Former CSU star Ty Sambrailo said his hyper extended elbow has improved. He's not sure how much longer he will wear a brace. He's been playing multiple positions in practice, including right guard and right tackle.

Defensive tackle Vance Walker tweeted that he underwent successful knee surgery. He will miss the season after tearing his ACL during training camp. "Surgery went very well today!!! Again I thank everyone for their prayers, thoughts, and well wishes. I truly do appreciate it. If there is any praying I can do for you all, please let me know, as you guys have done the same for me."