ALAMEDA – Strong safety Karl Joseph returned to Raiders practice on Thursday, the next step in an extended rehab process. Just because he's back on the field doesn't mean he'll be ready for Sunday's game at Denver.
The Raiders prefer to re-acclimate players slowly, generally taking several practice sessions before a return is granted.
That's believed to be the course taken with Joseph, who has done side work in recent days and was seen doing some during Wednesday's practice. The slower play is also an option considering how well Nate Allen has played in his stead.
Allen has 27 tackles, two interceptions and three passes defensed in three-plus games Joseph hurt his toe in a victory over Buffalo.
"With him being back there, everything's solid," defensive coordinator Ken Norton Jr. said. "Nate is solid, you know what you're going to get. His disguise, his coverage, the way he and Reggie (Nelson) work together has been really good."
Left guard Kelechi Osemele missed a second straight practice with an ankle injury. He missed a session last week and played without incident. This could still be a case of rest over reps for such an established player.
Quarterback Derek Carr remains out with an ankle injury.
Sports
Raiders participation report
Did not practice: QB Derek Carr (ankle), LG Kelechi Osemele (ankle)
Limited participation: S Karl Joseph (toe), WR Amari Cooper (shoulder), WR Michael Crabtree (ankle), WR Andre Holmes (shoulder), DT Stacy McGee (groin), RB Jalen Richard (shoulder), LB Perry Riley (hamstring), LB Malcolm Smith (hamstring)
Broncs participation report
Did not participate: TE AJ Derby (concussion), S TJ Card (concussion), DE Derek Wolfe (neck)
Limited participation: OLB Shaq Barrett (ankle), TE Virgil Green (concussion), LB Brandon Marshall (hamstring), C Matt Paradis (hips), NT Sylvester Williams (shoulder)
Full participation: WR Bennie Fowler (knee)
