Denver Broncos OTAs help assess progress for coaches and 2024 preparations

The Denver Broncos’ head coach, Sean Payton, answered multiple questions during OTAs.  One of the most anticipated questions was in regards to certain players that may have not reported or attended any of the offseason workouts.  Payton explained his thought process in regards to the challenge of player’s not being at OTAs, “Well look, it is what it is.  I think guys staying away from OTAs – that can happen and one of our players will occasionally miss a day, but eventually arrive at training camp. 

The mandatory part of the offseason is the minicamp, and then training camp is mandatory, so there we go.” Denver’s defense was a vital offseason importance and re-signing safety P.J. Locke was a major priority which Coach Payton commented on. “He’s smart and he’s tough…. He’s earned snaps and he’s put himself in a good position.” Several questions from the media inquired about comparisons of rookie quarterback, Bo Nix, to former Super Bowl winning quarterback Drew Brees in which Sean Payton made sure to answer carefully.  “Bo’s mentality would be a good comparison as far as him wanting to know as much and as fast as he can.” Denver is excited for the quarterbacks in the QB room this year, “They’re pushing each other. Bo was running with the number 1s today, while we will also give Zach Wilson a turn as well.” The defensive line has a vocal leader in Malcolm Roach and the coach believes that Malcolm will develop as a “Glue guy” in the locker room. 

The Broncos handling of cornerback Pat Surtain II will be limited during OTAs for now.  “He’s healthy.  I think he’s doing well and once he saw that former Broncos safety Steve Foley is at 44 career interceptions and he’s at seven, he knows he still has some work to do still.” The new kickoff rules and guidelines were brought up in media questions and the Broncos are fully prepared for the new strategies for receiving and defending kickoffs.  “We’ve seen film of XFL kickoffs, we have it all cut up. 

There are some elements that are different, but it’s something that we’ve looked at and will continue to look at,” Coach Payton stated.  Denver Running Back Javonte Williams is looking forward to contributing right away, “Just being out here with the guys, getting your timing and things down pat and not watching from the sidelines is always way better.”  Broncos hold four OTAs this week, and will change format next week for minicamp.