ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — The Denver Broncos returned to the field Monday for another training camp session, ramping up situational work ahead of their upcoming trip to San Francisco. With a joint practice scheduled Thursday and a preseason matchup set for Saturday, the team continued to sharpen execution and evaluate depth.
Payton: ‘Ramp-Up Day’ Before the Road Test
Head Coach Sean Payton described Monday’s work as a “ramp-up day,” with an emphasis on two-minute drills and situational periods.
“I thought today’s practice went pretty well,” Payton said.
The Broncos will meet Tuesday evening to define roles ahead of Wednesday night’s flight to the Bay Area. Payton noted that he and 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan are finalizing the joint practice format and itinerary.
Despite the intensity of the joint practice, Payton made it clear that players won’t be held back in Saturday’s game.
“There’s this feeling … if I practice them a bunch, then I’m not going to play them in the game,” Payton said. “We’re playing guys in the game.”
He emphasized the importance of accumulating live reps, especially on the road. The Broncos will also hold joint practices with the Arizona Cardinals later this preseason, offering another opportunity for evaluation.
Bonitto’s Instincts on Display
Second-year edge rusher Nik Bonitto drew praise for his natural feel in coverage and ability to disrupt plays.
“He can get his arms up, tip a ball,” Payton said. “I think it comes easier to some than others.”
With his athleticism and growing IQ, Bonitto continues to solidify his role in a defense looking for explosive contributors behind Pat Surtain II.
Quarterback Room Shows Depth
Bo Nix remains at the center of attention, continuing to build confidence as he leads the huddle. Payton credited the rookie for taking a major leap in command.
“He’s light years further along,” Payton said.
Though Nix has thrown a few interceptions during camp — “charting picks here like hurricanes,” as Payton joked — the head coach isn’t concerned.
Veterans Sam Ehlinger and Jarrett Stidham have also performed well. Ehlinger has impressed with mobility and confidence outside the pocket.
“He’s extremely athletic, comfortable throwing on the run … I like the player a lot,” Payton said.
Stidham, who started the final two games of 2023, has quietly continued to stack solid practices. “He’s playing well too,” Payton added.
A Visit from Jason Garrett
Former Cowboys head coach Jason Garrett, once a backup QB under Payton, visited camp Monday as part of a leadership podcast project. The two have remained close since their time together in the early 2000s.
Payton reflected on mentoring players who transition into coaching, including names like Chris Banjo, Dan Campbell, and Aaron Glenn.
Building in the Trenches: Wattenberg, Allen Make Strides
Center Luke Wattenberg said his focus has been improving hand placement and speed in the run game under offensive line coach Chris Morgan. Continuity with quarterbacks has been a major point of progress.
“It feels seamless,” Wattenberg said.
The former Washington standout also praised defensive lineman Zach Allen, saying: “He can rush the passer, he can stop the run. He’s earned every single dollar.”
Wattenberg noted the value of facing new opponents after weeks of internal competition: “We’re tired of each other … it’s nice to see some new faces.”
Secondary Chemistry: McMillian, Barron Impress
Cornerback Ja’Quan McMillian commended rookie Jahdae Barron for picking up the defense quickly.
“That’s every year with me … I compete each and every day,” McMillian said. “I love competition.”
He credited Surtain II’s precision and technique, calling him “a freak athlete” and a “technician.”
McMillian emphasized the importance of joint practices in exposing coverage gaps and testing defensive schemes against unfamiliar looks.
🟩 Practice Highlights
- Two-minute drill execution continues to be a focus in camp.
- Joint practice reps won’t limit preseason game participation.
- Bo Nix showing command, despite some turnovers.
- Sam Ehlinger and Jarrett Stidham strengthening the QB room.
- Nik Bonitto, Jahdae Barron, Ja’Quan McMillian highlight growing defensive depth.
- Luke Wattenberg improving consistency with QBs, facing off against high-level D-line talent.
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