Here’s a word Broncos fans haven’t heard much this year: health.

But as the team prepares for Monday night’s game at San Diego, it is doing so with the healthiest roster it has had since, well, maybe ever.

Outside linebacker Robert Ayers is on track to practice again today, a day after returning to the field for the first time since breaking a bone in his foot Oct. 10. The only Bronco who won’t practice this week and likely will be ruled out for Monday’s game is cornerback Andre’ Goodman, who continues to be sidelined with a quadriceps injury.

The Broncos, at 3-6, are two games behind division-leading Oakland in the AFC West race. The Chargers are 4-5.

“The record sort of speaks for itself, I don’t think anybody is really thrilled with where we’re at in that regard,” coach Josh McDaniels said. “But I think the attitude is: We have an opportunity to play our best football coming up.”

Having a healthy squad certainly plays a part in that. The Broncos have, in recent seasons, struggled in November and December (they were 2-8 in those months last season), while the Chargers have thrived.

“Really what matters is if we’re where we want to be at at the end of the year,” McDaniels said. “That goal is still attainable.”

Lindsay H. Jones: 303-954-1262 or ljones@denverpost.com