ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — The Denver Broncos wrapped up their training camp on a high note, highlighted by quarterback Bo Nix’s standout performance during joint practice sessions against the Arizona Cardinals. Nix demonstrated a sharp and confident approach that carried through the entirety of the drills, setting an optimistic tone heading into their upcoming game against the Cardinals.
Starting with a 7-on-7 passing period, Nix completed multiple precise throws, including a notable 20-yard connection with wide receiver Pat Bryant on a critical third-and-long situation. His impressive showing continued through the more complex 11-on-11 scrimmages, where he distributed the ball evenly across the field with completions to twelve different receivers, showcasing both his accuracy and field vision.
Exciting Highlights From Nix’s Practice Performance
Throughout the session, Nix highlighted his ability to deliver big plays. One such moment came with a perfectly timed pass to second-year receiver Devaughn Vele, who made a determined catch then sprinted for a gain exceeding 50 yards. Additionally, Nix hit wide receivers Troy Franklin and Trent Sherfield Sr. on well-placed sideline passes that resulted in gains of 20 yards or more.
Other key plays included multiple completions to Marvin Mims Jr., where Nix demonstrated agility moving within the pocket, and a successful red-zone touchdown pass caught by Courtland Sutton, who expertly created separation from his defender. Despite a penalty moment, Nix also connected with Evan Engram for a goal-line score, adding to an already strong practice display.
Bo, you can definitely tell he made the Year 2 leap,
Cardinals linebacker Mack Wilson Sr. said.
Just comparing what I saw last year with him as a rookie. He was out there making no-look throws and stuff. I’m really just happy for him.
—Mack Wilson Sr., Cardinals linebacker
Late-Game Scenarios Highlight Nix’s Command
Bo Nix’s poise was equally evident during late situational drills. Facing a three-point deficit with only 1:10 remaining on the clock and no timeouts, Nix orchestrated a quick, efficient drive. His precise passes to Courtland Sutton and several completions to Troy Franklin and Michael Bandy moved the Broncos downfield rapidly, reinforcing his readiness to lead the offense under pressure.
We have talent everywhere, noted Evan Engram, who praised the collective effort.
I just love how everybody works. Guys, they don’t make plays by accident. Every guy that’s here, that’s made plays this camp — that’s going to make plays this season — has truly put the work in to evolve their game. There’s so many great minds to pick from and I’m not surprised at all by the way that we work.
—Evan Engram, tight end
Broncos’ Defense Responds Strongly in Final Minutes
While the Cardinals claimed several early explosive plays on the defensive side, Denver’s defense rebounded impressively, particularly within two-minute drill scenarios. Defensive players, including Zach Allen, noted the importance of reviewing game film to improve on both the successes and mistakes evident during the practice.
It’s still pretty fresh, Allen said.
Watching the film will be the most important thing. Days like this, it’s always some good, some bad. So, we’ll see. Probably wanted to come out a little faster, but again, we’ll watch the film and see what we can do better.
—Zach Allen, Broncos defensive end
The Broncos’ defense managed to force a critical fourth-down incompletion, securing the win in the two-minute drill and demonstrating their ability to perform under high-pressure situations against tough opponents like wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. and tight end Trey McBride.
Though practice pass rushes against Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray appeared effective, Allen tempered expectations concerning how those pressures might translate in a live game, given Murray’s exceptional agility.
Obviously, everybody knows the athlete Kyler is,
Allen said.
Definitely today, when we watch the film, it will be interesting to see if it was just a pressure [or] if it would be a sack. He’s a dynamic athlete, so with him, you never know. It was good to go against him again.
—Zach Allen, Broncos defensive end
Running Game Shows Progress Despite Practice Limitations
Assessing the running backs’ performance in practice can be challenging due to early whistles interrupting plays. However, several carries during red-zone drills produced positive yardage, including a notable run by RJ Harvey. Head Coach Sean Payton shared insights on the current stage of the running game’s development.
You haven’t seen it yet, because in every drill, there’s an early whistle,
Payton explained.
We stay up on the backs. You saw a little last week. When it’s tackle, you’ll see more. I would say we are much further along just in the looks. It’s hard to appreciate when you’re working a thud-up, touch-up tempo. … I think you’ll see it. We’ve seen it.
—Sean Payton, Broncos head coach
Upcoming Matchup and Roster Updates
Looking ahead, Payton detailed strategic plans for the Broncos’ Saturday clash with the Arizona Cardinals, indicating that key starters might see limited playing time. The primary lineup is expected to gain more extensive in-game experience in the August 23 matchup against the New Orleans Saints.
Additionally, the Broncos’ coaching staff provided updates on several players’ health, including outside linebacker Nik Bonitto, tight end Nate Adkins, tackle Garett Bolles, and fullback Michael Burton, with further details anticipated as the season approaches.