Even his pressers are getting better.
When evaluating Bo Nix during training camp, a number of things stick out. After starting for nine years in high school and college, Nix shows poise in the huddle and at the line of scrimmage. He displays a quick release and eye-opening accuracy. And during Friday’s scrimmage vs. the Packers, he showed growth in the red zone, firing darts to Phillip Dorsett — his best pass of the afternoon — Tim Patrick and Michael Bandy for touchdowns.
Afterward, he demonstrated even greater progress. In his previous post-practice news conference, Nix seemed a little annoyed, a little short, the result of a frustrating workout. Friday, he answered questions with confidence. I can hear eyes rolling over this. But quarterbacks are CEOs of Fortune 500 companies, and their composure in these situations matters.
I fully expect Nix to be named the No. 1 sometime next week. He’s ready, his answers during a five-minute media session offering another hint of his maturity. Nix struck the right chords about starting at home Sunday, the importance of poise, learning in situational periods and not worrying about things out of his control.
He is 24 in age only. Nix feels much older in football years. This doesn’t guarantee his success, but the marriage of his experience and athleticism with coach Sean Payton’s vision is creating hope on and off the field.
Defense doesn’t rest: The attacking defense under Vance Joseph took another step forward Friday with multiple pressures and pass deflections. Two players stuck out: Cornerback Pat Surtain II covered receivers tighter than Saran Wrap, and defensive end John Franklin-Myers showed burst on his pass rush.
Just-in Time: Safety Justin Simmons knew he was taking a risk by playing the long game as a free agent. In the end, he was able to spend the spring with his family and miss training camp before signing a one-year, $8 million deal with the Falcons. Simmons is a former All-Pro and Pro Bowler. He leads the NFL with 30 interceptions since 2016. But he’s never been to the playoffs. Atlanta — yes, Atlanta — gives him that chance after trading for Matthew Judon and landing Simmons in a 48-hour span. Simmons thanked me for well wishes Friday and said “Will see you in November,” as the Broncos host the Falcons on Nov. 17.
NBA Problem: American NBA stars won the Olympic gold, and the league released its TV schedule with a mission to go for the old. In his 22nd season, LeBron James and the Lakers will be on national TV 39 times. Steph Curry, in his 16th season, and the Warriors rank second in appearances. This is a problem, illustrating how the league remains too dependent on aging legends, while not connecting the audience with NCAA stars. College basketball used to be the NBA’s minor league. Now, nobody knows who the players are on draft night.
Troel Embiid: Memo to fantasy league owners. If Joel Embiid is on your team, get a replacement for Jan. 21. The 76ers visit Denver that night, otherwise known as Joel’s PTO. He hasn’t played in Ball Arena since 2019.
Rockies Mess: The Rockies authored a memorable book this summer, “The Catcher in the Wrong.” Rather than trade Elias Diaz at his peak value last summer, they waived him Friday, receiving zero in return. Is it any wonder the Rockies are on pace for just 58 wins?
Mail Time
I would like to see the (Broncos) cut Zach Wilson, who is a waste of time, then replace him with the Patriots’ Joe Milton III, who could become a star in the NFL.
Peter West, email
Peter, it’s a tough week to jump off the Wilson bandwagon. Not only is he no longer a candidate to get released, but he could end up the backup when the season opens Sept. 8. He has gained traction over the last two weeks, making it increasingly likely the Broncos keep three quarterbacks. As for Milton, his athleticism is breathtaking. But let’s tap the brakes on talk of his potential. He is 6 for 13 for 74 yards in two preseason games, showing the same accuracy issues that submarined him in his six combined years at Michigan and Tennessee.