Broncos' DeMarcus Ware begins practicing

CENTENNIAL, Colo. -- They're back. 

Football's best defense is complete with the return of outside linebacker DeMarcus Ware. Ware missed training camp as his back healed. He practiced Tuesday, leaving the Orange Rush in tact for the first time since mauling the Carolina Panthers in Super Bowl 50.

Ware dealt with a disc issue in his back last season, leading him to miss five games. The rest down the stretch pay dividends in the playoffs. Ware posted 3.5 sacks in three games, causing havoc with Von Miller. Ware became an inspiration for teammates who wanted to win a title for him. Ware and Peyton Manning addressed the team on the eve of the Super Bowl, leaving players confident they would beat Carolina.

Ware, 34, restructured his contract to return for his third year in Denver. He received a signing bonus and can recoup money through incentives for sacks. Ware is unsure if he will play in the preseason. He would like to get some reps, but admitted it's not necessary as long as he's healthy for the Sept. 8 season opener against the Panthers.

Talib on track

Cornerback Aqib Talib, who has been on a progressive plan after suffering a gunshot wound in his right leg, is expected to make his preseason debut Saturday. Talib played against the San Francisco 49ers in practice last week without any setbacks. Talib faces potential NFL discipline for the June 5 off-field incident. However, the Dallas Police Department continues to investigate, and the NFL might wait until a conclusion before making any decisions. 

Bradley Roby, who plays near half the time in sub packages, started in Talib's spot in the first two weeks.

Footnotes

Darrion Weems remains in the concussion protocol, but is the favorite to start at right guard in the season opener. Weems left Saturday's game with the injury. Michael Schofield and rookie Connor McGovern filled in after he left. ... Projected starting right guard Ty Sambrailo has made progress with his hyper-extended right elbow, but the earliest he'd be ready is the regular season. Even then, it's unlikely he would start after missing a month of practice. ... Linebacker Corey Nelson, who sprained his left wrist, is expected to play against the Rams.