Denver Broncos Practice Without Shaun Phillips, Derek Wolfe

Philip Rivers (17) is hit as he releases the ball by Denver Broncos defensive end Derek Wolfe (95) during the first half at Qualcomm Stadium. (Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports)

The Denver Broncos were without Shaun Phillips during Monday’s practice.

“He was sick,” John Fox said. “He had a fever and we sent him home.”

Seems innocent enough considering the game is still six days away, but the timing doesn’t bode well for the Broncos to lose Phillips, who leads the team with 10 sacks.

The Broncos defense is also without Derek Wolfe, who didn’t participate in Monday’s practice. Fox said that Wolfe had some “medical appointments,” which comes after having the flu two weeks ago and suffering seizure-like symptoms in late-November.

Wolfe practiced on Christmas Day, but hasn’t returned since.

Wolfe struggled with weight loss during the season and suffered a neck injury in preseason.

Reflecting on his year, Wolfe sent out these Tweets on New Year’s Eve and on New Year’s day.

Wolfe most likely will not play this week since he hasn’t practiced fully since November. Phillips, who has sacked Philip Rivers twice this year, should be set to go up against his old team.

On the offensive side of the ball, Wes Welker will be back in action.

It’s good to see the Broncos entering the playoffs relatively healthy. It’s going to take a full squad to get where they want to go.

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