SAN DIEGO -- Chargers center Nick Hardwick will not play against the Broncos on Sunday in the showdown between AFC West leaders in Denver.
Hardwick, out since having ankle surgery following the season opener, missed practice Thursday. The former Pro Bowl pick returned to practice four weeks ago, but he hasn't practiced since suffering a setback last Wednesday.
Several Chargers players returned to practice, including tight end Antonio Gates and linebackers Shaun Phillips and Shawne Merriman. Offensive tackle Jeromey Clary hasn't practiced since leaving last Sunday's victory over the Philadelphia Eagles because of an ankle injury. Chargers coach Norv Turner said Clary might work out Saturday.
Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press