NFL: Clarett out for Broncos' first game

HOUSTON -- Maurice Clarett's hasn't played in a game in more than 2 1/2 years.
He'll have to wait at least another week to make his NFL debut.
The former Ohio State star and third-round draft pick has a sore groin and will miss the Denver Broncos' preseason opener Saturday against the Houston Texans. - NFL Football -"
The MRI was negative," Broncos coach Mike Shanahan said. "It's nothing serious. It's not torn. He is getting rehab right now, working out a couple of times a day in the weight room, getting treatment about four times a day. Hopefully when we get back, he will be ready to go."
While Clarett, who did not accompany the team to Houston, awaits his first NFL game, Jerry Rice will make his Broncos debut in hopes of making the team for his 21st season.
Rice, who sat out practice Wednesday morning with a sore heel, participated in the remainder of the team's workouts in Houston. He's listed as second-string at one of the receiver positions behind Ashley Lelie. - NFL Football -
Even without Clarett, the Broncos have a multitude of good running backs led by Mike Anderson. Second-stringer Tatum Bell had 75 carries for 396 yards and three touchdowns as a rookie and could push for the starting job.
"We've got a lot of guys fighting for positions and backup positions," Shanahan said. "That's what preseason is all about." - NFL Football -

Kristie Rieken, The Associated Press