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  • Broncos WR Lil’Jordan Humphrey takes blame after Bo Nix’s early interception caromed off his hands: “It’s a mistake on me”

    Broncos WR Lil’Jordan Humphrey takes blame after Bo Nix’s early interception caromed off his hands: “It’s a mistake on me”

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    BALTIMORE — The Broncos didn’t lose because of their second offensive snap of the day.

    They didn’t get beat by 31 points because of one single mistake.

    But when Denver got the ball first, they also couldn’t afford to turn it over against high-powered Baltimore.

    That’s just what happened, though, when rookie quarterback Bo Nix’s first pass of the day caromed off Lil’Jordan Humphrey’s hands and into the waiting arms of Ravens safety Ar’Darius Washington.

    “It was a little roll-out and I tried to go make a play,” Humphrey said afterward. “I obviously didn’t and that’s on me. I know better. I’ve got to put two hands up, you know what I mean. I’ve got to move past it and move forward and on to next week.

    “It’s a mistake on me.”

    Nix hadn’t thrown an interception since a Week 6 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers. All six of his picks, now, have come in Denver’s four losses. In those games, he has two touchdown passes. In Denver’s five wins, Nix has six touchdown passes.

    It’s the second straight week that Denver’s first possession ended because of a turnover on a play to Humphrey. He fumbled last week on a catch that eventually resulted in a Carolina touchdown drive. This week the Broncos defense actually forced a Baltimore punt, but the Ravens proceeded to score on seven straight drives after that.

    Sutton’s big day. Courtland Sutton is doing it all. And then some.

    The Broncos receiver not only logged his second straight 100-yard receiving outing — the first time in his career he’s gone back-to-back in that department — but he also threw a fourth-down touchdown pass to quarterback Bo Nix on a trick play.

    “We called it at the right time,” Nix said. “We knew they were going to be in (Cover) 0 funnel and the guy actually made a good play of retreating and trailing. Courtland looked pretty good again on that play.”

    In a Week 7 win at New Orleans, Sutton had no targets for the first time in his career. In two games since, Denver’s top pass-catcher has 15 catches (21 targets) for 222 yards.

    He’s also completed a pair of passes for 30 total yards and a touchdown.

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    Parker Gabriel

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  • Broncos QB Bo Nix named NFL Offensive Rookie of the Month

    Broncos QB Bo Nix named NFL Offensive Rookie of the Month

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    After Bo Nix took his game to another level in October, he was rewarded for his efforts.

    Nix was named the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Month, becoming the third player in franchise history to receive the honor and first since former running back Clinton Portis in 2002.

    This month, Nix threw for 870 yards, seven touchdowns and an interception while completing 66.7% of his passes. The former Oregon quarterback also had 29 carries for 149 rushing yards (5.1 yards per carry) and two touchdowns to help the Broncos go 3-1 in October.

    Nix’s performance was a complete turnaround from September when he threw for 660 yards, a touchdown and four picks.

    Nix is fresh off his best game of the season. He went 28 for 37 with 284 yards and three touchdowns in a 28-14 win over the Carolina Panthers last week. He has thrown for at least 200 yards in three of the last four games.

    Through eight games, the 12th overall pick has totaled 1,530 passing yards, eight touchdowns and five interceptions with a 63.2% completion percentage. Nix has 52 carries for 259 yards and four scores.

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    Ryan McFadden

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  • A night celebrating past made Broncos coach Sean Payton grateful for his present: “I’m glad I’m here”

    A night celebrating past made Broncos coach Sean Payton grateful for his present: “I’m glad I’m here”

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    NEW ORLEANS — This game between the the Broncos and New Orleans got circled on the NFL calendar because of the past: Sean Payton’s past with the Saints and what he accomplished alongside quarterback Drew Brees and many others over 15 years.

    As those memories and stories came rushing back over Denver’s short stay here in the Bayou, Payton felt the weight of them.

    But he also reminded himself about the memories being made now.

    Boy, did his Broncos put together one for the scrapbook Thursday night.

    Their 33-10 drubbing of New Orleans in primetime not only got the team to 4-3 and cleansed the palette of a bitter loss to the Chargers on Sunday, but it also gave Payton the chance to step back a bit. It gave him a chance to take in the Superdome scene and appreciate not just what was before, but what is now.

    His first head coaching chapter and his second.

    “(I) came over here early just to kind of get started going through the game plan again,” said Payton, noting he slept in late after the short week of prep before briefly crashing Drew Brees’ Hall of Fame ceremony at a nearby hotel. “It meant a lot because there were a lot of moments here. And you get a chance to see old players that are here.”

    After Denver polished off a resounding victory, he sought out some of those former players and coaching staff members and reserved particularly big hugs for long-time Saints Alvin Kamara and Cam Jordan.

    Then Payton retreated to the cramped visiting locker room, where Broncos CEO Greg Penner gave Payton a game ball in the locker room.

    “To be here with this team and this ownership group, it’s the reason you miss it,” said Payton, who spent one year doing television work between resigning as the Saints’ head coach after the 2021 season and getting hired by the Broncos after 2022. “The one year out, you miss relationships and you miss making memories.”

    He said he told his team not to take these times for granted and used All-Pro cornerback Pat Surtain II’s 100-yard interception return touchdown along the Broncos’ sideline in Week 5 against Las Vegas as an example.

    “There will be a day when I don’t remember his name and I’m having applesauce out of a straw, but I’ll remember that play,” Payton said. “And that part of it, being around young people and having a chance to be part of their journey and coach them, is a pretty good job.

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    Parker Gabriel

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  • Broncos QB Bo Nix’s ability to avoid sacks has been strong suit through five games

    Broncos QB Bo Nix’s ability to avoid sacks has been strong suit through five games

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    During Sean Payton’s study of Bo Nix ahead of the 2024 NFL draft, the Broncos head coach was galvanized by the quarterback’s ability to avoid getting sacked.

    In his first season in Denver, there was a sense of frustration about the amount of sacks former quarterback Russell Wilson had taken. And he knew his next signal caller had to prevent putting himself in those minus yard situations.

    Five weeks into the season, Nix hasn’t been perfect but has proven to be a hard player to take down, which Payton attributes to his sneaky quick speed and being a quality processor.

    “Getting through a progression quickly is extremely helpful in avoiding unnecessary sacks,” Payton said after Wednesday’s practice. “His ability to process has helped that greatly.”

    In Wilson’s final season of his short two-year tenure with the Broncos, he was one of the league’s most sacked quarterbacks. He was taken down 45 times — fourth-most in the NFL — despite having the second-longest time to throw (3.06 seconds), according to Next Gen Stats.

    Part of the issue was Wilson holding on to the ball longer than he should. Wilson was responsible for 24.3% of his sacks, according to Pro Football Focus, the highest percentage among quarterbacks in 2023.

    Nix has had his fair share of struggles, but evading pressure has been his strength thus far. The former Oregon star has been sacked seven times, with three of those takedowns coming in Sunday’s win over the Raiders.

    “I think it’s understanding timing and protections,” Nix said. “I took three on Sunday and I wish I could have them back (because) sacks kill drives.”

    Nix was sacked six times in each of the two seasons with the Ducks, according to Pro Football Focus. Even though the pro level is more sped up compared to college, he has figured out a way to avoid getting hit.

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    Ryan McFadden

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  • Broncos podcast: Denver’s week at The Greenbrier and the challenge of losing ILB Alex Singleton

    Broncos podcast: Denver’s week at The Greenbrier and the challenge of losing ILB Alex Singleton

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    Denver Post beat reporters Parker Gabriel, Ryan McFadden and columnist Troy Renck break down the Broncos’ 26-7 win over Tampa Bay, weigh the impact of losing ILB and captain Alex Singleton for the season to a torn ACL and give the latest on Sean Payton’s team from West Virginia.

    What do Parker and Troy think of The Greenbrier and the surrounding rolling hills of West Virginia? And can the trip help Denver get an upset win Sunday against Aaron Rodgers and the New York Jets?

    All that and more on the latest edition of the 1st & Orange Podcast.

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    Parker Gabriel, Ryan McFadden, Troy Renck

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  • Broncos’ Audric Estime on running backs after preseason win over Colts: “We have a bunch of guys who can do it all”

    Broncos’ Audric Estime on running backs after preseason win over Colts: “We have a bunch of guys who can do it all”

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    INDIANAPOLIS — One of the Broncos’ most heated position battles of training camp was on display at Lucas Oil Stadium on Sunday.

    The quarterback competition may garner the biggest headlines, but the running backs have locked into a fierce struggle for playing time — and that came through loud and clear in the Broncos’ 34-30 victory over the Colts in their preseason opener.

    Second-year running back Jaleel McLaughlin’s investment in a JUGS machine proved beneficial when he caught a 22-yard pass from rookie quarterback Bo Nix on a wheel route. Five plays later, rookie running back Audric Estime showcased his power when he steamrolled into the end zone for a touchdown to give Denver a 20-10 advantage in the third quarter.

    In head coach Sean Payton’s offense, the run game is essential. He is high on having a backfield filled with versatile players. On Sunday, nearly each running back impacted the game in a multitude of ways, as Denver outrushed Indianapolis, 131-64.

    “They all had a spark,” Payton said.

    However, their performance emphasized the tough decision looming over the organization of how many running backs it keeps on the initial 53-man roster and who.

    Javonte Williams started the game, rushing for 15 yards on four carries in the opening quarter. Then the young guys went to work. McLaughlin had 56 total yards (30 rushing and 26 receiving) on nine touches. He averaged 4.3 yards on seven carries.

    Estime had 10 carries for 31 yards while undrafted rookie Blake Watson was active down the stretch. In the fourth quarter, Watson showed why Denver signed him when he caught a short pass from Wilson before bursting down the sideline for a 33-yard gain. Watson finished with 10 touches for 59 yards, including 26 on the ground, and a touchdown.

    Tyler Badie had his moment in the spotlight when he ran 11 yards for a touchdown to extend Denver’s lead to 27-17 with 2:18 to go in the third. Denver’s offense finished with three rushing touchdowns.

    “We have a bunch of guys who can do it all,” Estime said. “We have smaller guys (and) bigger backs but no matter who you are, you gotta be able to (play) all three downs. I feel like it’s a great group of guys.”

    While Denver’s backfield had its moments, veteran Samaje Perine offered a lowlight. In the first quarter, Perine couldn’t control a short pass from quarterback Jarrett Stidham. The ball juggled out of his hands and was picked off by Colts cornerback Kenny Moore. The failed reception was his only target, and he didn’t have a single rushing attempt the rest of the game.

    As a whole, Payton wasn’t pleased with Denver’s ball security from the running backs, as they had two turnovers. In the third, Estime fumbled at the Broncos’ 47-yard line before cornerback Micah Abraham recovered the ball and scored to cut the deficit to 20-17 with 6:58 remaining. Later in the fourth, Watson fumbled a handoff from quarterback Zach Wilson that was recovered by the offense.

    “Those are the things that you gotta make sure you clean up (and) those guys will learn from that,” Payton said.

    During training camp, Williams, Estime and McLaughlin have stood out at running back. If Sunday was a reflection of what’s to come, that trio could be taking snaps this fall.

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    Ryan McFadden

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  • Former Broncos safety Justin Simmons to visit Saints

    Former Broncos safety Justin Simmons to visit Saints

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    Justin Simmons could be on the verge of finding a new home.

    The former Broncos safety is set to visit the New Orleans Saints on Wednesday, a source familiar with the situation told The Denver Post. The news was first reported by Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football.

    Simmons is one of the best free agents available. In eight seasons with the Broncos, Simmons recorded 604 tackles, 30 interceptions and 65 passes defended. Simmons’ interception total is the most by a player since 2016.

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    Ryan McFadden

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  • Keeler: Broncos put QB Bo Nix third on their depth chart? Sean Payton needs to stop trolling Broncos Country and get on with the rebuild

    Keeler: Broncos put QB Bo Nix third on their depth chart? Sean Payton needs to stop trolling Broncos Country and get on with the rebuild

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    Why does Sean Payton have to be such a pain in the ash?

    Jarrett Stidham is ballast. Zach Wilson is insurance. Any meaningful Broncos snap in 2024 that isn’t devoted to Bo Nix is a snap wasted, a dollar burned. A pile of cinders, right next to the smoldering $53 million you just gave Russell Wilson to hurt himself in Pittsburgh.

    Can we just get on with it? Please? Declaring Steady Stiddy as your starter, as Payton more or less did for Sunday’s preseason opener at Indianapolis, is just delaying the inevitable. It’s cute for cute’s sake. It’s either an epic troll job or a backdoor message to Nix, picked 12th in this past spring’s draft to be your franchise quarterback, that his present isn’t promised.

    “I’m not ready for a depth chart, but I have to get (the league) a depth chart,” Payton said after Tuesday’s practice. “So it’s easy to push the (younger) players to the back of the line and then make sure it’s kind of where we sit right now.

    “And that’s really it. No, it’s a good question, but I’m not trying to send messages at all.”

    Whatever. No. 10 turns 25 in February. Start the meter or get a different cab.

    This isn’t 2021. This isn’t about Drew vs. Teddy, about dividing the family and picking a side. This isn’t about an unproven coach who desperately needs to win now, the way Uncle Vic Fangio had to and didn’t.

    Broncos Country should be united around Nix, until he gives them ample cause, gives them enough evidence, to cut bait and turn the page. Which might be never.

    But dang it, there’s only one way to find out.

    It’s about 2025. And 2026. And 2027. Until then, you’re thumb-wrestling with the Raiduhs for third in the AFC West.

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    Sean Keeler

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  • Broncos training camp rewind, Day 1: QB Zach Wilson takes turn in rotation and fans join the party for the first time this summer

    Broncos training camp rewind, Day 1: QB Zach Wilson takes turn in rotation and fans join the party for the first time this summer

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    Attendance

    Did not practice: Physically Unable to Perform list — S Caden Sterns (knee), S Delarrin Turner-Yell (knee) and LB Drew Sanders (Achilles). Non-Football Injury list — RB Blake Watson (muscle strain). Out — OLB Nik Bonitto, OL Nick Gargiulo. Dropped out — S Brandon Jones (hamstring)

    Payton told reporters after practice that Jones “tweaked” his hamstring and was being evaluated. He also expects Bonitto to be back to practice work Saturday.

    QB Race Today

    Zach Wilson did, indeed, get all the No. 1 reps during practice Friday, continuing the rotation that began earlier this week with Jarrett Stidham on Wednesday and Bo Nix on Thursday.

    The Broncos didn’t waste any time, getting a 7-on-7 period and three team periods in during their first full-length camp practice of the summer. Head coach Sean Payton said afterward that the team put a heavy emphasis on third-down situations.

    None of the three quarterbacks turned the ball over in team settings Friday, though Wilson and Nix were each almost picked by corners Riley Moss and Reese Taylor, respectively.

    “There’s things you have to evaluate sometimes,” Payton said. “In other words, the pocket, was it broken down? There’s certain things that can take place that can affect their execution. So when you’re evaluating and breaking down the reps, you have to take all of that into account. I like the way they’re protecting the ball and I think they’re working through their progressions. … They’re getting a lot of looks.”

    Top Play

    On a Friday devoid of big, spectacular plays, beauty was in the eye of the beholder. Maybe you preferred a pretty looking toss play to the left for Jaleel McLaughlin? Or a couple of nice plays on the ball by Moss, the second-year corner? Or the continued, consistent pressure that the defensive line generated? All come with caveats: It’s early and more to the point they’re not wearing pads yet.

    Thumbs Up

    Reynolds’ all-around addition: Wide receiver Josh Reynolds made a couple of plays Friday and is already showing the kind of versatility Denver coveted in free agency. He’s a tall, long receiver, a smooth runner and a willing blocker.

    “He’s flexible, he’s smart,” Payton said. “(Passing game coordinator) Johnny Morton worked with him in Detroit so we had a little bit more knowledge of the player. He loves playing. … He’s been a good addition.”

    Welcome, Bo: Not surprisingly, the rookie quarterback got a big cheer from the crowd on hand Friday. With fans in attendance for the first time since Nix was selected No. 12 overall in April’s draft, it’s no surprise he got a warm welcome considering it’s the highest Denver’s drafted a quarterback since Jay Cutler went No. 11 in 2006.

    Thumbs Down

    Safety net?: The Broncos’ depth at safety is already a question mark with Sterns on PUP. If Jones ends up missing substantial time with the hamstring issue, Payton and company will have to take a realistic look at whether they’ve got enough depth on the roster.

    Dink and dunk: The NFL’s not much of a home-run league these days. Not only that, but Payton talked about the situation-heavy work Friday, the still-early installation schedule and more that is all reality this time of year. Still, the Broncos’ trio of quarterbacks at some point is going to have to show the ability to attack down the field with the ball. That hasn’t shown up much yet this offseason.

    Odds and Ends

    • The evaluation changes dramatically for everyone when pads come on, but some positions more than others. One of the most interesting players to watch: Rookie RB Audric Estime. He’s a load and has looked good so far this week.

    • Early means early — and it’s early — but so far the center battle has not seen as much rotation as the quarterbacks. Luke Wattenberg so far has seen most of the top-group work. We’ll see as time goes along if he’s truly leading or if Alex Forsyth or Sam Mustipher makes a move.

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    Parker Gabriel

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  • Broncos podcast: Previewing 2024 training camp and Denver’s three-man QB competition

    Broncos podcast: Previewing 2024 training camp and Denver’s three-man QB competition

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    Denver Post reporters Parker Gabriel and Ryan McFadden cover key storylines as the Broncos get ready to start 2024 training camp under Sean Payton, including Quinn Meinerz’s massive contract extension, whether Pat Surtain II might be next and how the three-man QB race between Bo Nix, Jarrett Stidham and Zach Wilson sets up in the coming weeks. All that and more on the latest edition of the 1st & Orange Podcast.

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    Parker Gabriel

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  • Youth, competition create excitement within Broncos offense: “We have a team full of hungry dogs”

    Youth, competition create excitement within Broncos offense: “We have a team full of hungry dogs”

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    As Sean Payton embarks on his second season as the Broncos head coach, he has felt rejuvenated.

    Denver’s offense has been sprinkled with youth, sparking position battles — and not just at quarterback — as players are try to make their mark on a team that’s in the midst of a rebuild.

    “I think it’s that challenge of working with a young team,” Payton said. “I think that’s the one thing I notice at least watching. I feel the competition.”

    Courtland Sutton didn’t show up to the Broncos’ facility until mandatory minicamp, but for the two days the veteran wide receiver was on the practice field, he felt the same energy.

    He said the offense is filled with hungry players who are determined to go on the field each week to prove themselves, which is one reason there’s excitement among the players and coaches about training camp.

    Indeed, the battle between rookie Bo Nix, Jarrett Stidham and Zach Wilson for the starting quarterback job will be the highlight of the summer. But the competition at center, wide receiver and running back could be just as heated. The current state of the organization has created opportunity for first- and second-year players to step into meaningful roles this fall.

    “You have a lot of guys that are still on their rookie deal, just got drafted or (undrafted) free agents,” Sutton said. “(We have) a team full of hungry dogs.”

    Denver’s wide receivers room is filled with young players who have the potential to make an impact. After the Broncos traded wideout Jerry Jeudy to the Cleveland Browns in March, Marvin Mims Jr. has a chance to be a second option in the passing game. Denver also has rookies Troy Franklin and Devaughn Vele, both of whom could command significant playing time, depending on how they perform during training camp and preseason games.

    At running back, the one-two punch of Javonte Williams and Samaje Perine might not be guaranteed. The Broncos drafted former Notre Dame standout Audric Estime — who has been sidelined due to a knee procedure — and is viewed by Payton as a first- and second-down running back. Meanwhile, Jaleel McLaughlin and undrafted rookie Blake Watson have spent the offseason program displaying the receiving traits that Payton desires from running backs.

    With Greg Dulcich continuing to work his way back from injury, there’s an opportunity for tight end Lucas Krull to show the coaching staff that he can potentially be the pass-catching threat that the Broncos desperately need at the position.

    “It felt different this year in a good way,” Payton said of the competition level within the team.

    While there might be an emphasis on the Broncos developing their young talent, Sutton said the mid-career veterans have something to prove as well. Wide receiver Tim Patrick, who restructured the final year of his contract, is hoping to show that he can still be a reliable asset in Denver’s wide receivers room despite having back-to-back season-ending injuries — and despite the team drafting Vele, who has similar traits.

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    Ryan McFadden

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  • Former Broncos safety Justin Simmons might be in football limbo, but he was right at home Saturday and enjoying his offseason

    Former Broncos safety Justin Simmons might be in football limbo, but he was right at home Saturday and enjoying his offseason

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    Justin Simmons the football player remains in a state of limbo.

    Simmons the person looked right at home Saturday morning in Montbello.

    The 31-year-old, released by the Broncos after eight seasons back in March, has seen his free agency now inch toward the three-month mark.

    You wouldn’t have known it at the Denver Broncos Boys & Girls Club for the annual March for Peace on this sun-splashed morning.

    “God is so good. I’m so thankful for this time and for his faithfulness in terms of slowing me down and not taking things for granted,” Simmons said in his first public comments since his Broncos tenure ended this spring. “This offseason has been such a blessing. I’ve had a tremendous opportunity in my eyes to regain some lost moments of hanging out with family, I’ve got to go to my daughter’s dance recitals and I’ve got to see them grow and I’ve got to be home a lot more. All while training and staying ready so I don’t have to get ready.

    “One door closes and another opens and that’ll open at some point here in the future.”

    The two-time Pro Bowl safety didn’t want to talk much about football or about his future prospects with a pair of reporters on hand, but he readily acknowledged a piece of symmetry that borders perhaps on poetic.

    The organizers of this event, Nashara Ellerbee and Naja’Ray West, are graduating seniors and off to Colorado State University in the fall. It’s a time of change in their lives. A time of excitement but also anxiousness. When you’ve made the impact they’ve made on a community, you don’t know quite what’s coming behind you, but if you’ve made your mark well, you can have confidence that it’s something good.

    That’s Simmons, too. He doesn’t know where he’ll be playing next year just yet, but he knows he’s enjoying this offseason. He knows he finds himself feeling every bit as rooted here among the familiar faces and folks who perhaps once saw him as a football player but now just see him as justin.

    “Honestly, even now in this time of transition, I’ve talked to them because they’re both getting ready to go off to college and we’re talking about next steps and who’s roommates and classes and what are we going to do here and when do we get to visit family?” he said. “And I’m talking them through it from my experience in college. But similarly I’m taking the same step just with another team at some point. And so it’ll be the same thing, right? New locker room, new coaches, wanting to fit in, wanting to establish yourself with your play. So we’re both in this thing almost together in different aspects. I’m looking to them for encouragement and they’re encouraging me and I hope I’m doing a good job encouraging them.

    “They’ve just been a huge blessing. I love their heart, I love their passion for people and their community and that’s what I’ve learned the most from them is just how impactful you can be just by loving on people.”

    It’s one more way in which West, Ellerbee and Simmons have drawn from each other over several years worth of their respective lives and development.

    “I’ve learned so much, even the intentionality that they’ve put into trying to help their own hometown, backyard,” Simmons said. “For me, you’re so plugged into trying to help as many people as you can. And I think Nashara and Ray Ray have done a good job of putting into perspective for me as, like, helping the people that you’ve done life with. That’s super important. Never lose sight of that. I think it’s great if you want to help as many people as you can and inspire as many people as you can, but you never want to forget the community and the people that helped you along the way and helped raised you and helped grow with you.”

    Simmons, of course, is a Florida native. He went to college at Boston College. Now he’s been in Denver since 2016. The past several years, this has been his community.

    “This is our brother at the end of the day,” West said of Simmons. “Regardless of where we end up and they end up, where he ends up on a new team, we’re family. We’re always going to have each other. When he comes to this event he comes not as a football player but as himself. Justin Simmons the guy that we know. Not the Denver Broncos safety.

    Added Ellerbee, “I just know that he’s going to be there for us. He goes to our graduations, both of our senior nights. He’s just a guy we can count on if we need anything.”

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    Parker Gabriel

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  • As the countdown to Canton hits the home stretch, Broncos’ newest Hall of Famer soaks in “Randy Gradishar Day”

    As the countdown to Canton hits the home stretch, Broncos’ newest Hall of Famer soaks in “Randy Gradishar Day”

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    When a governor is serving as your hype man and a mayor is volunteering himself as your aide for the afternoon, you’re having a pretty good day.

    When the day itself is proclaimed in your honor, all the better.

    That was Friday on the west steps of the state capitol for Randy Gradishar.

    The Broncos legend and 2024 Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee soaked in a sunny May 3 afternoon that Gov. Jared Polis named Randy Gradishar Day after the linebacker who wore No. 53 in the middle of Denver’s defense for one of its most dominant decades.

    “Having this opportunity to come out and have Randy Gradishar Day with the governor and the mayor and just in Colorado people appreciating this, it’s just really humbling for me,” Gradishar said afterward. “Having the opportunity to be recognized this way and knowing that finally the Pro Football Hall of Fame is here is a real blessing.”

    Polis spoke while wearing one of the Broncos’ new uniforms with the No. 24 and “Polis” on the back and said the only reason he didn’t wear his signed Gradishar jersey is because he’d had it framed and hung in his office.

    He read the official proclamation, which included some of Gradishar’s career statistical highlights and nodded to many of Gradishar’s off-the-field pursuits, like decades of work with Colorado youth and military personnel.

    A sizable group of Broncos fans and onlookers gathered in front of the orange-and-blue arc of balloons set up for the event, which also included Broncos cheerleaders, the drum line and, of course, “Miles” the mascot in addition to friends and former teammates of Gradishar’s and team executives.

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    Parker Gabriel

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  • Grading Broncos’ Day 2 of the NFL draft: The Post’s sports staff weigh in on second, third rounds

    Grading Broncos’ Day 2 of the NFL draft: The Post’s sports staff weigh in on second, third rounds

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    The Post’s sports staff weighs in with grades after the Denver Broncos drafted Utah edge rusher Jonah Elliss on Day 2 of the NFL draft.

    Parker Gabriel, Broncos beat writer

    Grade: B+

    A solid grade for Denver on two fronts and with one caveat. The Broncos hit a position of need at No. 76 overall in Utah edge rusher Jonah Elliss. They also stayed patient. After picking at No. 12 instead of trading back Thursday, the only way to move up from No. 76 in a meaningful way would have been to deal a player or dip into 2025 draft capital. Instead, Denver held on to its assets and picked a player with the skillset to help early — if he stays healthy. Some risk there given Elliss’ shoulder and hamstring issues, but a solid bet to make deep into Day 2.

    Ryan McFadden, Broncos beat writer

    Grade: B

    Elliss plays with a high-motor, a trait that helped him collect 12 sacks in his final season at Utah. He will need to improve as a run defender, and his shoulder injury, which forced him to not work out at the scouting combine, is a bit concerning. But Elliss has the potential to be a solid rotational player as a rookie who could develop into a starter on the edge in the future.

    Troy Renck, sports columnist

    Grade: B

    Utah’s Jonah Elliss brings energy and intensity to the edge. He has good hands, but needs to add more counter moves to his arsenal. He likely will need to bulk up to help him support the run. He profiles as a sub package pass rusher as a rookie for a group that hasn’t had a player reach double-digit sacks since 2018. That is too much to ask for as a rookie, but his ceiling suggests it is possible by Year 3 as he grows into a full-time role.

    Sean Keeler, sports columnist

    Grade: B

    Troy Franklin? No? Anyone? Elliss is fine — lean, mean, great bloodlines. If you love your edge-rushers with a no-quit engine, you’re going to love this guy. His first-down, short-yardage mileage is still TBD, but Luther’s kid won’t be awed by the stage. Or by Patrick Mahomes. Promise you that.

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    Matt Schubert, Parker Gabriel, Ryan McFadden, Troy E. Renck, Sean Keeler

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  • Grading Broncos’ Day 1 of the NFL Draft: The Post’s sports staff weigh in on the first round

    Grading Broncos’ Day 1 of the NFL Draft: The Post’s sports staff weigh in on the first round

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    The Post’s sports staff weighs in with grades after the Denver Broncos drafted Oregon quarterback Bo Nix with the 12th overall pick on Day 1 of the NFL Draft.

    Parker Gabriel, Broncos beat writer

    Grade: B-

    The gut reaction to this pick is going to be almost entirely driven by the strength of trust in Sean Payton to pick a quarterback. The fact that Nix was the sixth of the perceived top six selected Thursday will either prove Payton and the Broncos’ evaluation process to be a terrific one or it will end up looking like desperation. That makes Nix, far from a sure bet to turn into an upper-echelon player at the NFL level, a fascinating case study going forward.

    Ryan McFadden, Broncos beat writer

    Grade: B-

    Going into the draft, it felt like Denver couldn’t walk away without a quarterback. But taking Bo Nix at No. 12 seems like a reach. Unless the Broncos thought the Raiders would take him at No. 13, they could’ve tried to obtain more picks and still taken Nix after trading back. Nix fits Sean Payton’s offense, and his experience (61 college starts) gives him a chance to be a Week 1 starter. But Broncos Country will need to put its full trust in Payton that he knows something that others don’t.

    Troy Renck, sports columnist

    Grade: B

    There was no way the Broncos could rationalize leaving the first round without a quarterback. The AFC demands it. In Nix, Sean Payton landed a quarterback with maturity, intelligence, a quick release and a talent for avoiding sacks. Is he Drew Brees? That’s not fair. But could an athletic game manager be capable of keeping the offense on schedule? Yes. The USC game film provides reason to believe. His Auburn career creates pause. But at some point, you have to trust Payton. And all he’s done is stake his legacy to Nix.

    Sean Keeler, sports columnist

    Grade: B+

    Is the kid a reach at 12? Yup. Is Michael Penix Jr. better? Yup. Not every NFL braintrust loves Bo Nix as much as Sean Payton did, but that’s OK. Even if Nix is more Checkdown Charlie than Drew Brees II, this was a statement of intent. On Day 1, the Broncos didn’t come away from the best QB draft in ages empty-handed. You don’t get big victories in this league without making some small ones first.

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    Parker Gabriel, Ryan McFadden, Troy E. Renck, Sean Keeler, Matt Schubert

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  • In afterglow of CHSSA vote to add girls flag football, Broncos committed to helping “this season and beyond”

    In afterglow of CHSSA vote to add girls flag football, Broncos committed to helping “this season and beyond”

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    Saylor Swanson says it so casually you can almost miss it.

    “I’ve always pictured myself playing quarterback,” Swanson, an Arvada West High junior, said Wednesday morning at the Broncos’ training facility.

    She has been, really, for the past two years playing flag football in CHSAA’s pilot program.

    She will be this fall, too, but in a slightly different capacity. She’ll be the quarterback for her team’s varsity program after Colorado on Tuesday became the 11th state to make girls flag football a sanctioned high school sport.

    On Wednesday, Broncos owner Carrie Walton Penner, team executives and CHSSA commissioner Mike Krueger talked about the journey to get to this point, but also about what comes next.

    Broadly, it’s a similar set of feelings for Swanson and the players as it is for the people tasked with implementing the sport and growing it around the state. It’ll be similar to the past two years in some ways, bigger in some ways and exciting all the same. And there’s plenty of work and growth ahead.

    “I’m so glad it’s actually taken off,” Saylor said. “I played football when I was a little kid with my brothers and I’ve always wanted to play. I never expected it to be an option. I played co-ed when I was younger and I kind of quit because the boys were getting rough and I was the only girl.

    “I’ve always wanted to play for an all-girls team and high school, playing with my friends, it’s just so awesome.”

    The Broncos made it clear that the organization will be part of the next phase, too. They’ll continue providing funding and the team’s vice president of community impact and Denver Broncos Foundation executive director Allie Engelken also said they’ll provide education on grant opportunities through Nike, USA Football and other resources available to schools.

    “We’re excited to continue to support this sport this season and beyond,” Engelken said. “We do that through not only financial commitment for schools as well as high-impact for youth, but also through a lot of programmatic elements.”

    As it pertains to girls flag football, Engelken said those include, “officials and referee recruitment and training. Coaches clinics and sanctioning. Ensuring coaches feel prepared to coach an emerging sport. That includes a regional NFL Flag tournament. … that will continue in partnership with the NFL.

    “We see our opportunity for support to continue to grow.”

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    Parker Gabriel

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  • Keeler: Broncos landing Zach Wilson at QB? Smart. Settling on Wilson if Bo Nix, Michael Penix are available? Dumb.

    Keeler: Broncos landing Zach Wilson at QB? Smart. Settling on Wilson if Bo Nix, Michael Penix are available? Dumb.

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    Rescuing Zach Wilson is smart. Stopping at Zach Wilson is hubris.

    As a quarterback, Wilson’s merely appetizer material. If the NFL draft is still serving Bo Nix or Michael Penix Jr. as a main course, and at a reasonable cost, the Broncos would be crazy not to bite.

    A QB room consisting of Wilson, Jarrett Stidham, Ben DiNucci and a seventh-round flier to be named late would be the worst in the division (pending Raiderfoonery ). And arguably the worst in an AFC that’s still loaded with franchise signal-callers.

    In isolation, though, you get it. Landing Wilson from the Jets with a seventh-round pick for a sixth-rounder is a solid, low-cap, low-risk move. It just better not be the only one, at least where the quarterback is concerned.

    After Russell Wilson took the money and ran, the best thing the Broncos could do at QB1 right now is open this competition to the masses. Bring in as many bodies as you can afford until one of them actually sticks.

    And, on paper, this body’s got more upside than most. Maybe. The draftniks at NFL.com three years ago described the 24-year-old Wilson, the No. 2 overall pick in the ’21 draft, as a “blend (of) Jake Plummer and Johnny Manziel coming out of (BYU).” Which is both awesome (the Plummer part) and terrifying (the Manziel part) in the same sentence.

    On one hand, the kid did beat Russell Wilson, head-to-head, at Empower Field as a visiting QB with the Jets twice in two trips since September 2022.

    On the other, what the heck does that say?

    If you look at Zach Wilson’s 30 career starts against anyone not named the Broncos, he’s sported a 10-20 record, thrown 23 touchdowns and 22 picks, and completed 17 passes per game at a clip of 56.5%.

    Also, he got benched for Trevor Siemian. 2023 Trevor Siemian.

    Wiser football heads, old coaches and scouts texted me Monday to say they still see a spark in Zach Wilson, that nobody could’ve walked away from the dumpster fire that is the J-E-T-S without some second-degree burns. That maybe Broncos QB Whisperer Sean Payton — Russell Wilson notwithstanding — is the sensei who winds up bringing it out of the guy, the way he brought it out of Drew Brees, Teddy Bridgewater and Kerry Collins, another top-5 bust in his early days with Carolina.

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    Sean Keeler

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  • Broncos like young core of cornerbacks, edge rushers, but there’s still room to add at both positions

    Broncos like young core of cornerbacks, edge rushers, but there’s still room to add at both positions

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    After Broncos general manager George Paton fielded nearly a dozen questions about the quarterback position during the team’s pre-draft news conference Thursday afternoon, he was asked about other areas of need.

    Throughout the draft process, many experts have had Denver drafting an edge rusher or cornerback with the 12th pick. And though Paton is confident in the depth at both positions, he didn’t shy away from the possibility of adding to either spot.

    “You are always looking at those types of positions,” Paton said. “If someone falls in your lap, you’re going to take them.”

    It’s hard to find quality edge rushers and cornerbacks, Paton reasoned. Players like Von Miller don’t walk through the doors every day. But at the same time, the talent the Broncos have at both position groups is young with room to grow.

    Outside linebacker Nik Bonitto, who is entering his third season in the league, had eight sacks in 2023 after recording 1.5 as a rookie. Jonathon Cooper had a team-best 8.5 sacks, while Denver should benefit from having Baron Browning at full strength entering the new year.

    At cornerback, Patrick Surtain II, 24, has established himself as one of the best in the league. Meanwhile, Ja’Quan McMillian played at a high level in the nickel spot during his sophomore campaign.

    But questions remain. How will Drew Sanders fare if Denver switches him from inside linebacker to the edge? Can Damarri Mathis bounce back after getting benched in the middle of last season? Will Riley Moss be able to live up to the team’s expectations after playing three snaps at outside cornerback as a rookie?

    In a division where the Broncos have to face two-time MVP Patrick Mahomes and Justin Herbert twice a year, they might not be able to afford to take that gamble, especially since they have the potential to draft a premier player at either position in the first round.

    “Whether it’s quarterback, edge or cornerback, you know what they are. They are a premium,” Paton said.

    When veteran Fabian Moreau took over as Denver’s starting cornerback, he held his own. But there were moments where he lacked the speed to keep up with certain wide receivers. Toledo’s Quinyon Mitchell — who could be available at No. 12 — does, and he can make plays on the ball. He completed the 40-yard at the scouting combine in 4.33 seconds while recording 18 pass breakups in his final season with the Rockets.

    Denver used its last first-round pick to draft Surtain in 2021, and it traded up to take Moss in the third round of last year’s draft. But the possibility of having two lockdown cornerbacks could be intriguing for a defense that finished 22nd in passing yards allowed (233.6 per game) last fall.

    When it comes to edge rushers, NFL draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah said in a conference call on Thursday that he thinks Alabama’s Dallas Turner, Florida State’s Jared Verse and UCLA’s Laiatu Latu are the top three players. Depending on how the top of the draft shakes up, either one could fall into Denver’s lap.

    Even though Bonitto and Cooper improved, the Broncos were 29th in pressure percentage (18.2%), 20th in sack percentage (6.8%) and tied for 21st in team sack totals (42), according to Pro Football Reference.

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    Ryan McFadden

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  • Broncos mock draft: What happens if Denver trades back in the first round?

    Broncos mock draft: What happens if Denver trades back in the first round?

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    In the last two mock drafts, we addressed how this April’s draft might play out if the Broncos turned to the trenches in the first round by taking a defensive tackle or offensive lineman.

    This time, after the Broncos failed to land a veteran quarterback in the first wave of free agency, we look at what happens if the franchise opts to address the most important position in football.

    Although head coach Sean Payton still hopes to add another experienced signal caller to the room, there appears to be more pressure to find a quarterback through the draft. We’ve already explored what the Broncos would have to send away in order to trade up for one of the draft’s coveted QBs. But in this exercise, will look at what happens if Denver trades down in the first round to land its quarterback of the future while also adding another playmaker on offense.

    First Round (No. 19 via Rams)

    Denver trades: No. 12 and No. 136

    Denver receives: No. 19 and No. 52

    QB Bo Nix, Oregon 

    With Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy likely getting picked inside the Top 10, the Broncos turn to the next best thing, and that’s Nix. The 24-year-old put up impressive numbers during his time with the Ducks, throwing for 8,101 yards, 74 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. More importantly, Nix has the tools that Payton looks for in a quarterback, such as efficiency, processing and ability to extend plays. The Heisman Trophy finalist will also provide experience, having played 61 career games in college. A quarterback battle with Jarrett Stidham awaits in training camp.

    Second Round (No. 52 via Rams)

    TE Ja’Tavion Sanders, Texas

    Tight end is one of the biggest needs for Denver. In New Orleans, Payton had players like Jimmy Graham, Jared Cook and Jeremy Shockey as vertical threats at the position. Greg Dulcich fits that mold, but his injury history makes it difficult to rely on him. Sanders has the potential to improve Denver’s tight ends room, which combined to catch 39 passes for 362 yards and four touchdowns in 2023. Sanders is ranked first all-time among Texas tight ends in career receptions (99), second in receiving yards (1,295) and sixth in receiving touchdowns (seven). Last season, He totaled a career-best 682 receiving yards on 45 catches while averaging 15.2 yards per reception.

    Third Round (No. 76)

    CB Renardo Green, Florida State 

    After Denver used its first two picks to improve the offense, the team addresses the defense. Green, who spent five seasons at Florida State, is a physical corner who plays well in man coverage. He collected 43 tackles and 13 passes defended last season, earning himself second-team All-ACC honors. In the season opener against LSU, Green held Malik Nabers — one of the top wide receivers in the draft — to two catches for 20 yards on five targets, according to Pro Football Focus.

    Fourth Round (No. 121 via Dolphins)

    EDGE Mohamed Kamara, Colorado State 

    Kamara is one of the best pass rushers in Rams history, ranking second all-time in career sacks (30.5) and third in career tackles for loss (45.5). He and UCLA edge Laiatu Latu were tied for fourth in the country with 13 sacks in 2023. Kamara has violent hands and plays with a ton of power. ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. is high on Kamara. “He gives you everything you want on every snap in terms of effort,” Kiper said in a conference call with reporters last week. “I love everything about this kid.”

    Fifth Round (No. 145 via Jets)

    OT Matt Goncalves, Pittsburgh 

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    Ryan McFadden

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  • Russell Wilson planning to sign with Pittsburgh after release from the Broncos

    Russell Wilson planning to sign with Pittsburgh after release from the Broncos

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    Russell Wilson may play at Empower Field in 2024 after all.

    It would just be in the black and gold.

    Wilson, who has not even been formally released by the Broncos but is set to be later this week, announced Sunday night that he plans to sign with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Multiple outlets have reported that the sides have an agreement on a one-year contract.

    Wilson will likely play at the veteran minimum of $1.21 million because he has $39 million in guaranteed salary from Denver for the 2024 season. The Broncos will pay all of that amount except for Wilson’s salary with a new team, so there’s little incentive for the Steelers to pay him more than the minimum.

    The Broncos still must actually release Wilson, which they will do sometime between the start of the 2024 NFL league year at 2 p.m. Wednesday and March 17. After they informed Wilson of their intent to release him a week ago, Denver allowed Wilson to begin speaking with other teams as if he were already a free agent.

    When they do process his release, Denver will have to account for $85 million in dead salary cap charges over the next two seasons. The Broncos will decide whether to take $35.4 million in 2024 and $49.6 million in 2025 or $53 million in 2024 and $32 million in 2025.

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    Parker Gabriel

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