Sean Payton Pleased with Performance of Rookies During Minicamp
As the Denver Broncos wrap up their minicamp sessions, head coach Sean Payton expressed notable satisfaction with the performance and progress of the team’s rookies. Entering his second season at the helm of the Broncos, Payton has made it clear that developing young talent is a crucial part of his strategy to reinvigorate the franchise. Early impressions from minicamp suggest the 2024 rookie class is already turning heads.
Speaking to reporters at the team’s facility in Dove Valley, Payton praised the group’s energy, preparation, and overall grasp of the system, describing their work as “encouraging” and “ahead of schedule.”
“It’s a sharp group,” Payton said. “You don’t want to get too far ahead of yourself in May, but their approach, how they’re picking things up mentally, how they’re competing — that’s what you want to see this early.”
Draft Picks Showing Early Promise
While Payton was complimentary of the entire rookie class, a few standouts from the team’s draft picks have already begun to separate themselves.
First-round quarterback Bo Nix, drafted 12th overall out of Oregon, drew consistent attention throughout minicamp. Despite being only a few practices in, Nix demonstrated poise in the pocket and a strong understanding of Payton’s offensive schemes. The former Ducks signal-caller was praised for his quick release, decision-making, and leadership during walkthroughs and competitive team drills.
“Bo’s got a quiet confidence about him,” Payton said. “He’s accurate, he’s smart, and you can see his experience from the college level show up in how he handles the huddle and processes information.”
Though Payton reiterated that the starting quarterback job remains an open competition, early signs point to Nix being very much in the mix.
Second-round wide receiver Troy Franklin, also from Oregon, built on his collegiate chemistry with Nix. The two connected repeatedly during drills, with Franklin showcasing his route-running ability and fluid acceleration. His rapport with Nix was evident, especially during red-zone work.
“He’s slippery out there,” said Payton of Franklin. “He’s got good instincts, and you can tell he’s played with Bo — there’s a natural rhythm to how they connect.”
Third-round pick Jonah Elliss, a defensive end from Utah, flashed explosiveness off the edge, giving Broncos offensive linemen trouble during 1-on-1 drills. Payton and the defensive coaches were encouraged by his motor and technique, even at this early stage.
Undrafted Players Making Noise
Beyond the draft picks, several undrafted rookies caught Payton’s attention. Known for identifying hidden gems — a skill honed during his long tenure with the New Orleans Saints — Payton seems to have unearthed more potential contributors.
One name that continues to generate buzz is wide receiver Xavier Weaver, an undrafted free agent out of Colorado. Weaver made several contested catches throughout the week and showed strong hands and body control. With a deep but uncertain receiving room, his performance could earn him a legitimate shot at making the 53-man roster.
On the defensive side, linebacker Drake Thomas out of NC State stood out for his intensity and instincts. Though slightly undersized for his position, Thomas showed good closing speed and awareness, making plays during 7-on-7s and drawing praise from the coaching staff.
“These young guys are competing,” Payton said. “You always hope a few of those undrafted players force your hand, and we’ve got a few doing just that right now.”
A Strong Foundation for Training Camp
Minicamp isn’t about perfect execution — it’s about laying the groundwork for training camp and giving rookies a crash course in NFL life. For Payton, it’s also about evaluating mindset, coachability, and readiness to absorb information.
Payton emphasized the importance of “mental reps” and noted that the rookies had taken the classroom work seriously. With a veteran coaching staff in place, the Broncos have designed a comprehensive onboarding process for rookies, helping them adjust not only to the playbook but also to the professional environment.
“We throw a lot at them early,” Payton explained. “We want to see how they respond — how they retain information, how they apply it on the field, and how they handle corrections. This group has been impressive in that regard.”
Veteran players who observed the rookies also commented on the energy and focus they brought. Some even took the initiative to mentor them during downtime, which Payton believes will pay off come July.
A New Direction Under Payton
The Broncos are coming off several disappointing seasons, and Sean Payton was brought in to provide structure, discipline, and a championship-caliber vision. After a full offseason to implement his system and overhaul the roster, there’s a palpable sense of progress at the facility.
Payton’s coaching style — demanding but detail-oriented — seems to be resonating with both veterans and rookies alike. His message to the team has been clear: competition is open, and no spot is guaranteed.
“If you can play, you’ll get a chance,” Payton said. “Whether you were picked in the first round or walked in undrafted, we care about production.”
That philosophy has sparked intensity throughout minicamp, with rookies eager to prove they belong. Though it’s early, the initial signs are promising — and Payton’s optimism suggests that the rookies are on the right track.
Looking Ahead
With rookie minicamp now in the rearview mirror, the next major step will be OTAs and the full-squad training camp later this summer. There, the rookies will face stiffer competition and a faster pace as they try to earn depth chart positions and roster spots.
Still, if their performance in minicamp is any indication, several rookies have a real chance to contribute immediately. For a team trying to rebuild and reestablish a winning culture, those contributions could prove vital.
Sean Payton knows that success in the NFL often hinges on the development of young players — and after minicamp, it’s clear he likes what he sees.
