Broncos defense finally whole

Lindsay H. Jones | USA TODAY Sports

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — The Denver Broncos defense looked markedly improved Wednesday when it began preparing for Sunday's game in Indianapolis.

For the first time since early August, the Broncos had every defensive player on the field — a group that included star pass rusher Von Miller, who completed his six-game suspension last Sunday.

The Broncos also had starting middle linebacker Wesley Woodyard (neck) and starting defensive end Robert Ayers (shoulder) back after both players missed Week 6's victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars with injuries. The Broncos last week got Pro Bowl cornerback Champ Bailey back after he missed five games with a sprained foot.

But Miller's return is the one that could matter most for a team that has not been able to generate a consistent pass rush, with 17 sacks, through the first six games. The Broncos are ranked last in the NFL in pass defense.

Colts' coach Chuck Pagano said Wednesday morning he expects Miller to make an immediate impact.

"The guy's a game-wrecker," Pagano said.

Pagano said the Colts did their "due diligence" in scouting Miller without having any regular-season game-film on him from 2013. Miller played in three of the Broncos' four preseason games, where he split time at strongside linebacker and defensive end.

The only Broncos' starter missing from practice was right tackle Orlando Franklin, who suffered a sprained left ankle against the Jaguars. He has not yet been ruled out for Sunday, though it is unlikely he'll play. If he is out, expect guard Louis Vasquez to again play tackle, with former starter Chris Kuper back in the lineup at right guard.

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