Demaryius Thomas Expected to Make Practice Debut Monday

Jul 27, 2013; Englewood, CO, USA; Denver Broncos wide receiver Demaryius Thomas (88) following the end of training camp at the Broncos training facility. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

Denver Broncos star wide receiver Demaryius Thomas missed the first few days of training camp due to the passing of his grandmother, but is expected back on Monday after his absence last week.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Thomas and his family.

On the football side of things, the Broncos will be ecstatic to have Peyton Manning’s #1 target back in the fold. The defense has reportedly been doing really well against the Broncos’ offense, and of course, not having ‘OpThomas Prime’ out there hasn’t been ideal for Manning and company.

Over the last two seasons, Thomas has been absolutely dominant, catching a total of 186 passes for 2,864 yards and 24 touchdowns. I’m sure Aqib Talib absolutely delighted to have Thomas to go against in practice…

In all seriousness, the Broncos have to be giddy to see Thomas back in the fold. His return would mean that everyone on the active roster is out there for camp in some way, shape, or form. The offensive skill positions are overflowing with talent, and Thomas is the cream of the crop. He is the Broncos’ best offensive player not named Peyton Manning, and he’s due for a contract extension.

Thus far, no deal has been agreed to, but Thomas should be one of the top five highest paid receivers in the league before all is said and done.

Surprisingly, Thomas is not holding out of camp entirely. He was excused for his family matters by the Broncos, and his return to camp would seem to indicate potentially that progress is being made towards a deal, similar to the way the Broncos handled Ryan Clady last year.

Either way, it’ll be great to see #88 back out on the field, and to read and see how he is making guys look silly. Welcome back, DT.