DOVE VALLEY - Denver Broncos quarterback Kyle Orton missed a third consecutive practice -at least the portion open to the media- Friday as he continues to recover from a sprained left ankle.
Coach Josh McDaniels says the Orton's availability for Sunday's pivotal contest with San Diego will come down to a game-time decision.
Backup QB Chris Simms again took first-team practice repetitions, as he has all week in the absence of Orton, who was injured during last week's 27-17 loss at Washington.
Simms is in line to make his first start since September 2006, when he suffered a life-threatening spleen injury while with Tampa Bay.
McDaniels says Orton would be put through a workout before Sunday's game and how he performs will determine whether he plays.
However, teams have been known to guard the injury status of key players in an effort to deceive their competition.
Coach Josh McDaniels says the Orton's availability for Sunday's pivotal contest with San Diego will come down to a game-time decision.
Backup QB Chris Simms again took first-team practice repetitions, as he has all week in the absence of Orton, who was injured during last week's 27-17 loss at Washington.
Simms is in line to make his first start since September 2006, when he suffered a life-threatening spleen injury while with Tampa Bay.
McDaniels says Orton would be put through a workout before Sunday's game and how he performs will determine whether he plays.
However, teams have been known to guard the injury status of key players in an effort to deceive their competition.
