The Denver Broncos wrapped up their first week of OTAs as we got our first look at Sean Payton’s squad this upcoming season. Entering his second season, Bo Nix looked crisp and his offseason preparation has him in a position where he doesn’t have to think as much going into training camp.

Denver Broncos conclude Week 1 of OTAs

There is nothing better than the smell of fresh-cut grass and football practice taking place, and Thursday’s viewing session for the media wrapped up the Denver Broncos’ first week of OTAs.

It was our first chance to see Bo Nix back on the field since January, and he looked comfortable, crisp, and in command of the entire operation under center. Last year when OTAs began, Nix was competing for the starting job and had to account for all of the information Sean Payton’s offense demanded him to learn.

We saw him conquer that last year, but in Thursday’s practice, it was easy to tell that he runs the show for the Broncos offense.

Denver’s second-year quarterback has a handful of players to throw to, including Courtland Sutton who was in attendance for the team’s voluntary organized team activities — as a sign of good faith as he awaits continued negotiations between his agent and the Broncos with him on the last year of his deal.

Sutton’s leadership is valuable, and it was evident on the field on Thursday, with the veteran receiver taking time to talk with the younger receivers in between reps during the team period and sharing whatever tips or feedback he could.

We got our first look at Evan Engram, who looks like another sizeable option for Nix to throw to alongside Sutton, Devaughn Vele, Pat Bryant, and Troy Franklin.

Marvin Mims looks like he’s in great shape as he enters his third season. Payton rotated in every wide receiver with every group, something he’s done in the past to maximize reps for various players, while getting to mix and match some of the younger guys with veterans.

Thursday’s practice also afforded us our first opportunity to see safety Talanoa Hufanga take the field. Payton’s process with getting players reps on offense was the same for the defense, with various younger guys and veterans mixing in.

Broncos players not spotted during Thursday’s OTA practice

These OTA practices are voluntary, with mandatory minicamp approaching on June 10-12. However, the Broncos were without a few players during Thursday’s practice.

Patrick Surtain II, John Franklin-Myers, JL Skinner, AT Perry, Mitchell Fraboni, Kristian Williams, Cole Fotherhingham, and Dre Greenlaw.

Greenlaw has been present at the team facility despite being out with a quad injury. A source told me Surtain has been at the facility this week. Franklin-Myers hasn’t normally appeared at OTAs throughout his career, but he is expected to be there for the start of mandatory minicamp.

We didn’t receive any updates on the other players listed as to why they were absent, but as noted, this portion of the offseason is voluntary.