The NFL regular season is just days away and few teams have had a worse off-season than the Denver Broncos.

First there was the showdown between quarterback Jay Cutler and new head coach Josh McDaniels. That resulted in the franchise quarterback being shipped out of town.

Next was the drama on and off the field from star wideout Brandon Marshall as he positions himself for a new contract while trying to avoid the wrath of the law and NFL commissioner Roger Goodell. How that scenario unfolds remain to be seen.

Now as the Broncos brace for their Week One opponent, the Cincinnati Bengals, there are injury questions surrounding the quarterback position.

The Denver Post reports that for the first time in a couple of weeks, the Broncos believe they will have two veteran quarterbacks ready to practice this week.

Chris Simms will go first. He got injured first, so he's had more time to heal from his sprained left ankle. He will be taking snaps today during the Broncos' light practice at Dove Valley.

Kyle Orton and his stitched-up finger will be held back until Tuesday, when the Broncos have their first lengthy practice of the week.

If the stitches on his finger and laces on the football can meld into consistent spirals, Orton will start the season opener next Sunday against the Cincinnati Bengals. Simms would become the backup and Tom Brandstater, the rookie who just finished off a gratifying preseason, will become the No. 3 quarterback.

denver broncos, kyle orton, chris simms, tom brandstater, brandon marshall, josh mcdaniels