It was just two weeks ago that the Broncos had 22 players on their injury report with several starters missing significant play time.

Week 17 brought a bill of health. For the second straight day, linebacker Brandon Marshall (ankle) was the only player not to participate in practice due to injury.

Marshall said Wednesday that the MRI on his ankle came back negative and had been diagnosed with a low right ankle sprain.

His status for Sunday’s game is in jeopardy as he missed his second straight practice, but he hasn’t been ruled out yet.

“I wouldn’t bet against him,” coach Gary Kubiak said.

Linebacker Todd Davis would likely get the start or extended play time if Marshall can’t go or is limited Sunday.

Quarterback Peyton Manning (foot) practiced for the second straight day. Kubiak said he expects Manning to be active as the No. 2 QB if there are no setbacks this week.

“He’s moving around, got a lot of reps today,” Kubiak said. “The confidence comes more each day.”

Manning looked fluid in his movement and throwing during practice Thursday.

Safeties T.J. Ward (ankle), Darian Stewart (hamstring) and Omar Bolden (hamstring) all practiced for the second straight day.

Ward and Stewart both played Monday against the Bengals coming out of the game with no setbacks.

Bolden has missed the last three games, but Kubiak said Wednesday that there’s a chance Bolden could return this week.

Tight end Owen Daniels was a spectator wearing a baseball cap on his typical veteran rest day.

Cameron Wolfe: 303-954-1891, cwolfe@denverpost.com or @CameronWolfe