Broncos: Kicker Prater having shaky camp

ENGLEWOOD • Denver Broncos kicker Matt Prater, who was almost perfect in training camp last year, has been shaky at times during this camp.

He has missed a few kicks, including a couple during Thursday night’s scrimmage at Invesco Field at Mile High, to the displeasure of the fans. He missed the first one wide right, then hooked the second one wide left. Both attempts were from 43 yards.

Broncos coach Josh McDaniels said he didn’t think the Broncos needed to bring in another kicker to compete with Prater.

“He’s made a whole lot of kicks, too,” McDaniels said. “We’ll see and evaluate every player in the preseason.”

HIGHLIGHTS AND LOWLIGHTS
Receiver Brandon Stokley was a standout during the scrimmage, catching many passes, including a couple short touchdowns. He and quarterback Kyle Orton seem to have a good connection. … Rookie cornerback Alphonso Smith showed off his quickness on defense and with some nice moves returning kickoffs. … On a day defensive end Nic Clemons (knee) returned to practice on a limited basis, defensive end J’Vonne Parker suffered what appeared to be a knee injury during the scrimmage.

QUOTABLE
“We love you, Ed!” — a fan from the stands, yelling at referee Ed Hochuli, whose blown call helped Denver beat San Diego last year. Hochuli was shown on the video board at Invesco Field at Mile High during the scrimmage, which drew some cheers.

WHAT’S NEXT
The Broncos have one 90-minute practice today, which was moved up 75 minutes to 1:15 p.m.

FOCUSING ON
Jabar Gaffney, receiver: With Brandon Marshall out with a left leg injury, Gaffney has been the starter opposite Brandon Stokley, as he was when Marshall was not practicing this offseason. Gaffney understands the offense and has made some nice catches in practice.

BLOG
“Clemons was back on the field, albeit wearing an orange jersey signifying he’s not ready for contact, and a knee brace.” For reports, visit gazettebroncos.freedomblogging.com.

TWEETS
“McDaniels said he wouldn’t consider bringing anyone in to compete against Prater, who has been inconsistent during camp.” Get The Gazette’s camp coverage as soon as something happens on Twitter. Join and follow us @fs3142.