Dawkins, Fells sit out Wednesday practice

Brian Dawkins has been a big part of Denver's defense this season. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey

Just when we thought the Denver Broncos were getting healthier.

On Wednesday, veteran safety Brian Dawkins did not participate in practice, joining tight end Daniel Fells on the sideline.  The usual MIP (missing at practice) Broncos all sat out again, receivers Demaryius Thomas (finger) and Eddie Royal (groin) were joined by tight end Julius Thomas (ankle).

There’s been no word yet on the status of Dawkins, who played the entire game on Sunday and did not appear to suffer any injuries.  It could be that Dawkins is just getting a veteran day off.  Fells did hurt his knee against the Packers in the first quarter but returned later in the game.

Back at practice was cornerback Champ Bailey and defensive tackle Marcus Thomas, both players missed Sunday’s game with respective hamstring and groin injuries.  The Broncos are hopeful to have Bailey and M. Thomas back this week and Royal, D. Thomas and J. Thomas back after the team’s week six bye.

The Broncos seemingly took a more serious approach to practice Wednesday, practicing in pads with no music playing during stretching periods, both abnormal for the team’s first day of practice.  With that said, Andrew Mason of MaxDenver noted that the team looked just as focused as they have in previous weeks.

Bailey has already said he will play this week, which is great news for the secondary. The loss of Dawkins however would be a big blow.  Rookie safety Rahim Moore would be joined by fellow rookie Quinton Carter at the back end of Denver’s secondary — which does not sound very comforting considering the two would be defending passes off the arm of San Diego’s Phillip Rivers.

Hopefully the Broncos can get healthier this week and come out of the bye week at full strength.