The Broncos could be without their leading receiver, Brandon Marshall, against the Chiefs. Marshall, who suffered a right hamstring injury early in Wednesday's practice, did not practice Thursday and remains somewhat of a question mark for Sunday's regular-season finale.
And if he does improve enough over the next few days to play, there is a question as to whether he would be full speed. If he is out or less than full speed, it may leave a hole in the Broncos' already-struggling offense.
Marshall's 101 receptions lead the team and are 61 more than Jabar Gaffney, who is No. 2. Marshall also leads the team with 1,120 yards — 601 more than Gaffney — and has scored 10 touchdowns.
"His play speaks for itself," Orton said.
Wide receiver Eddie Royal (head/neck) returned to practice on a limited basis Thursday. He did not play last weekend against the Eagles after taking a hit in the loss to the Raiders on Dec. 20.
The Broncos also put rookie Kenny Mckinley on injured reserve this week because of a knee injury he suffered against the Eagles.
It leaves the Broncos with only three healthy receivers on the active roster — Jabar Gaffney, Brandon Stokley and Brandon Lloyd. Rookie Matthew Willis is on the practice squad, and Denver could sign him to the 53-man roster before Sunday's game if they need more depth.
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