ENGLEWOOD, Colo. --Wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders and tight end Julius Thomas remained sidelined for Thursday's practice. But both were on the field -- in jerseys, but not wearing helmets -- taking mental repetitions during the two-hour session.
Sanders has reached the point of the post-concussion protocol where he can participate in conditioning.
"He's going through that phase of the protocol now," Head Coach John Fox said. "We'll evaluate it again [Friday]. We're optimistic, but we'll see what [Friday] brings."
With Sunday's game against the Dolphins approaching, the Broncos were honed in at practice on Thursday.
Running backs Montee Ball and Ronnie Hillman both sat out again with groin and foot injuries, respectively. Hillman has not practiced since being injured in Oakland on Nov. 9.
The Broncos have activated at least three running backs for each game this season. If that remains the same, then rookie Kapri Bibbs would get a jersey for the first time, joining C.J. Anderson and Juwan Thompson.
Tight end Virgil Green was limited with a calf injury. Left tackle Ryan Clady and safety Quinton Carter were also limited with groin and knee injuries, respectively.
"Of course. Virgil, obviously, he's our best blocking tight end, unless we put [an extra] tackle out there," Gase said. "If we can get him back this week, that would be great, because he can obviously help us."
"It would just help tremendous(ly)," running back C.J. Anderson said. "Virg, he loves what he does, and he was just so strong, so physical. Bringing him back is a big help, and hopefully it will get the run game going."
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