The Denver Broncos are currently playing with 52 players on that roster. They are hoping that 53rd spot gets filled sooner rather than later. There is a chance that Wes Welker could be back with the Broncos within the week if the NFL and NFL Players Association vote on the approval of a new drug policy. While Peyton Manning certainly did not miss Welker against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 1, but he is hoping he does not have to deal with the absence too much longer.
If the new policy is approved, Welker could be reinstated and paly in Week 2 against the Kansas City Chiefs. The wide receiver was suspended four games for violating the league's policy on performance enhancing drugs. Manning is hoping his receiver gets back on the field simply because he knows how much it would help the team.
"It's hard to say. We've tried to stay abreast of what's going on," Manning said, via ESPN.com. I know he's here in town. Obviously it would be great to get him back. We'll just see how the process, see how it all shakes out. We had the call [with NFLPA officials] last night. Didn't get the news that we wanted, but something was going on today. Jacob Tamme was on the call, along with Von [Miller], so talked to them this morning. It would be great if they got it resolved today and we got Wes back."
In Welker's absence, Julius Thomas put up three touchdowns on seven catches for 104 yards. Emmanuel Sanders also showed that transitioning quarterbacks was no issue for his as the first-time Denver receiver put up 77 yards on six catches. Andre Caldwell also got plenty of looks thrown his way. The ground game left a lot to be desired. Montee Ball put up 67 yards and a touchdown in his first game as a starter, but only averaged 2.9 yards per carry.
Right now, Welker cannot attend team meetings or work out at the Denver facilities. He is simply just waiting around for four games unless he can get back this week. If Welker were to return, is he still a fantasy lock? The receiver was already considered out at first because of a concussion sustained in the preseason. However, he will be healthy and should pick up right where he left off.