"Defensive captain and middle linebacker DeMeco Ryans missed another practice as he tries to work the soreness out of the sprained ankle he suffered late in the loss to the Tennessee Titans on Monday night.

But Ryans was the only Texan who didn't participate in the short but spirited Thanksgiving morning workout. Running back Steve Slaton (shoulder) had a full practice, as did wide receiver Jacoby Jones (calf).

Also, for the first time in weeks, rookie linebacker Brian Cushing (foot) has not been held out of any practices.

"Hopefully DeMeco will practice tomorrow," coach Gary Kubiak said. "Other than DeMeco, it looks like all our guys are heading in the right direction."

Asked if he was worried that Ryans will have to sit out against the Colts on Sunday, Kubiak said: "There's always a concern until you see a guy (play), but his history tells you that if, he says he's going to be ready to play, he will be ready to play.""