The Denver Broncos have clarity under center with quarterback Peyton Manning receiving the starting nod for the Divisional Playoff round next week.
However, the team announced Thursday that Brock Osweiler will not practice due to an MCL sprain he sustained Sunday against the San Diego Chargers. It is viewed as a precautionary measure.
Osweiler, however, is expected to be ready to backup Manning in the playoffs. NFL Media's James Palmer reports that Osweiler's health was not a factor in the decision to make Manning the starter.
Broncos head coach Gary Kubiak said on Thursday that Osweiler might return to practice on Saturday.
Kubiak added that there were "a lot of guys nicked up" following the game. Linebacker DeMarcus Ware also did not participate in Thursday's practice. Ware was limited to 27 snaps in the Broncos' Week 17 victory due to a knee injury.
Other injuries we're tracking on Thursday:
- Packers head coach Mike McCarthy said cornerback Sam Shields is still going through concussion protocol.
- Texans defensive lineman Jadeveon Clowney is day-to-day after practicing, according to coach Bill O'Brien.
- Cowboys defensive tackle Tyrone Crawford is expected to have shoulder surgery Thursday. Crawford tweeted Wednesday night that he was set for surgery. The veteran previously said he had been playing with a rotator cuff injury since Week 2.
- Chiefs center Mitch Morse (concussion) didn't practice.
- Ravens wide receiver Steve Smith is expected to be back in time for training camp from his torn right Achilles tendon. Fellow wideout Breshad Perriman -- who missed his entire rookie season -- will be fully recovered from his knee injury by next season, doctors told general manager Ozzie Newsome.
- Steelers running back DeAngelo Williams (foot) did not participate in Thursday's practice.
