After a travel-delayed return from San Francisco, the Denver Broncos eased back into work Tuesday with a “ramp-up” practice, setting the stage for Wednesday’s full-pads session and Thursday’s joint practice with the Arizona Cardinals.
Head Coach Sean Payton adjusted the schedule following Saturday night’s preseason opener against the 49ers, citing the importance of recovery when late travel cuts into rest. “If we get back past 2 a.m., all the sleep studies give you the information on the days it takes to recover,” Payton said. “Today was a ramp-up practice with some good situational red zone work. Tomorrow we’ll be in pads… Friday, we’ll be separate, and then of course we play the game Saturday night.”
Payton praised the roster’s improved depth compared to a year ago, noting tight battles at running back and wide receiver. He’s looking to get touches for newcomers like TE Evan Engram and WR Pat Bryant this week, and will adjust the running back rotation to evaluate all options.
That depth, he said, fuels performance: “Generally speaking that creates that higher level of performance, that competition. Then how do we keep trying to give these guys opportunities where it gives us more of an exposure?”
Injury and Player Updates
OLB Nik Bonitto: Expected back in practice Wednesday after dealing with a minor foot issue.
WR Devaughn Vele: Impressing with versatility and size; knee maintenance remains a focus to keep him fresh.
CB Kris Abrams-Draine: Earning praise for intelligence and ball skills.
RB RJ Harvey: Displaying speed and patience; coaches plan to give him varied looks against Arizona.
TE Lucas Krull: Building confidence with consistent playmaking.
CB Ja’Quan McMillian: Noted for having the instincts and hands to produce takeaways.
Veteran WR Trent Sherfield Sr. continues to prove his value as both a receiver and a special teams ace. “I pride myself on being a two-way player… You need offense, defense, and special teams to win the game,” he said.
Sherfield also relived his 36-yard toe-tap touchdown against the 49ers: “I knew I was close to the sideline… Once I saw it on the jumbotron, you see the little sliver of grass between my foot and the sideline, I was like, ‘Man, it’s good.’”
CB Pat Surtain II emphasized continued growth in his leadership role and the value of facing a fresh opponent. “It’s always good to go up against a new opponent… you can try different stuff and see different personnel,” he said.
Up Next: Broncos will be hosting the Cardinals for a two-field joint practice Thursday.
Kickoff for Saturday’s preseason game at Empower Field is set for 6 p.m. MT.
Denver Sports Media 