Today marked the last practice of the Broncos’ training camp, where the team practiced against itself. Tomorrow, the Arizona Cardinals will join for the Broncos’ second joint practice ahead of their preseason matchup on Saturday. Today’s session was dominated by running plays, and with media kept at a distance, many details remain unclear. The practice focused heavily on the second and third teams, with quarterback Bo Nix attempting only a few passes. Sean Payton did not address the media, and we only heard from the coordinators, leaving limited coverage of today’s events.
Despite this, we have highlights on the connection between Bo Nix and Courtland Sutton, Jonathon Cooper’s impressive performance in camp, updates on player injuries, and notable quotes!
Connection between Bo Nix and Courtland Sutton
One major reason for re-signing Courtland Sutton was his strong rapport with starting quarterback Bo Nix. Their connection, which proved valuable last season, has persisted through training camp, including today’s practice. The two linked up multiple times during Nix’s limited attempts, one being a two-point conversion/touchdown pass over Ja’Quan McMillain, a play they previously attempted but was denied by Pat Surtain II.
Despite having fewer reps, it was encouraging to see Nix rebound a bit after struggling in the preseason opener and practice yesterday. Offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi mentioned Nix is often his own harshest critic.
Nix will have a chance to further prove himself in tomorrow’s joint practice with the Cardinals, where the first team offense is expected to receive numerous reps. Their performance will likely influence their playing time in the preseason game on Saturday night.
Jonathon Cooper Shines
While Pat Surtain II, Nik Bonitto, and Zach Allen drew significant attention during camp, Jonathon Cooper may be having the best camp of all. This was evident today when he swiftly bypassed the Broncos’ right tackle for what would have been a swift sack on quarterback Bo Nix.
After practice, defensive coordinator Vance Joseph praised Cooper’s consistency, describing him as the best defensive player when he rejoined the team as the coach. Joseph noted, “Cooper is the same every day. He’s the fire starter for our defense and plays fast, regardless of how he feels.”
Coming off a quieter season with 10 sacks, Cooper has been somewhat overlooked, but he’s proving to be an essential player for the Broncos’ success this upcoming season.
- LB Drew Sanders will be out until the regular season starts due to foot surgery.
- EDGE Nik Bonitto is dealing with a mild foot injury, missing his second consecutive practice.
- CB Reese Taylor is nursing a hamstring injury and missed practice again.
- TE Nate Adkins is sidelined with an undisclosed injury.
- WR A.T. Perry practiced after being activated off the PUP list.
- LB Dre Greenlaw practiced in pads today.
- CB Damarri Mathis left practice with a trainer.
