Walker: Rest only cure for sore knee

Receiver might not return until Oct. 21 against Pittsburgh

Lee Rasizer, Rocky Mountain News

Friday, October 5, 2007

ENGLEWOOD - It seems Javon Walker has determined to let time heal all wounds.

The Broncos receiver, who missed Thursday's workout and hasn't practiced in two weeks because of right knee inflammation, seemed resigned, when questioned about his status, to waiting until the Oct. 21 home game with Pittsburgh to reappear in Denver's lineup.

Asked if he felt positive, negative or nothing about his chances of playing Sunday, Walker responded, "Nothing. We'll just wait and see after the bye week."

Walker's status on the injury report won't be listed until today. He previously has been told by doctors the spot where his knee is inflamed will have to resolve itself through treatment.

The place where the discomfort has occurred is behind Walker's knee, making it hard for anti-inflammatory injections to work their magic.

"I was taking needles and pills the first three weeks," he said. "But now it's something where time has to heal it."

Also missing practice were running back Travis Henry and fullback Paul Smith (neck). Defensive end John Engelberger (shoulder) was a limited participant.

San Diego tight end Antonio Gates (illness) missed Thursday's practice and was added to the Chargers' injury report.