Post Russell Wilson’s move, the D͏enver͏ Bronc͏os are changing. With no confirmation on the starting quarterback position, the attention is on all three big guns—Bo Nix, Zach Wil͏son͏, and Jarr͏ett Stidh͏am—as the Broncos gear up their powerful offense. Particularly targeting the young addition of Nix, analysts have chiseled a notable rise in wide receiver Marvin Mims’ performance, as is evident from the OTAs too.

Shedding light on the same, in relationship to the team’s progress, coach Sean Payton provided some insights. Analyst Nick Kosmider observed, “One clear takeaway from OTAs is the offense is far further along than it was at this point last year. Mims among players whose comfort in the system is discernible,” Payton confirmed the positive development, addressing, “The first half of these OTAs has gone really good. I mean really good. I told them that.”

With speculations concerning rookie Bo Nix leading the charge for the Broncos, Payton complimented the quarterbacks. He said, “All three are doing well. Specifically to Bo, he’s doing really well. He’s picking it up. There’s a lot that’s going on. He’s throwing the ball extremely well.” Payton commented on Nix’s training, stating that it involves studying and understanding the defensive scheme, as well as recognizing the spacing to locate the windows.

Further analysis of the OTAs involving Bo Nix included a completion pass to Josh Reynolds across the middle. Experts elaborated on Nix showcasing traits that will fit well with Sean Payton’s offensive techniques. The young quarterback doesn’t hold the ball for long and makes plays right outside the pocket. Apart from Bo Nix, Stidham has also been playing smart football.

During OTAs, his throws seem to be eye-catching, especially a deep pass to rookie wideout Troy Franklin. Concerning the running backs, receivers, and the secondary, the HC made it clear that there will be “heavy competition.” Especially looking at the way the OTAs unfolded till now for Sean Payton, he added, “I think there’s that old saying, ‘iron sharpens iron,’ and I feel like that’s going to happen.”

Meanwhile, Lucas Krull has received a massive thumbs-up from the coach. Highlighting the rising offense, Payton mentioned, “I thought he’s had a good week. I said, ‘Someday soon, they’re going to know who 85 is.’” During the 11-on-11 period, the tight end showcased an impressive leaping catch to the ball thrown by Stidham.

Looking at the Broncos’ camp, it is undeniable that Payton and Co are training for a lethal season. The players are ensuring both quality and quantity of practice alongside developing on-field bonds. However, lingering doubts over the decision to part ways with Russell Wilson remain. There’s a potential for vindication for Coach Sean Payton, should Wilson’s struggles elsewhere validate his choices.

Russell Wilson’s performance could prove Sean Payton right

The Denver Broncos’ bold move to part ways with Russell Wilson despite his statistically solid performance—29 touchdowns, eight interceptions, and a 98 passer rating—was because of inefficiency and one-dimensional play. Wilson’s holding onto the ball for too long and several sacks also proved to be a cause of concern for the team.

In 2022, Wilson amassed a whopping 55 sacks, and in the last season with Denver, the veteran QB took 45 sacks. Thus, taking a total of 100 sacks which was the most in the league. Whether or not this problem persists will only be answered once the season starts, but analysts have been directing their verdicts not in agreement with Wilson and his caliber.

Former Steelers linebacker Arthur pointed out, “He [Wilson] still knows how to weaponize it, but it’s not as scary as when you watch Justin Fields, who we said just said the record right. I like Justin Fields. I lean a little bit more him.”  On similar lines, analyst Field Yates also highlighted, “I do think that, you know, it’s not a certainty that Russell Wilson is a starting quarterback in week 1, not a certainty at all. Justin can do some things that Russ at this stage of his career is simply incapable of doing at high level.” 

While these are speculations for now, Wilson’s performance in the upcoming season will prove to be a defining factor. Especially with the analysis given by Payton concerning the QB, the pressure of a new franchise and old criticism will be present as Wilson will lead the Steelers. In comparison, Coach Payton did mention Nix, “He processes fast. Sack reductions sometimes is the ability to process and deliver.” Thus, the anticipation and competition for the upcoming NFL season will be as mental as it will be physical.