CENTENNIAL, Colo. -- From Las Vegas oddsmakers to a stool at the corner bar, it remains easy to find those sharply divided over whether the Broncos can return to the playoffs given the uncertainty at quarterback. Some argue the team might be better, but post a worst record because of the schedule. Others believe new boss Mike McCoy's offensive attack will provide the jolt necessary to give a gnarly defense leads to protect.
The debate will rage until and through the season. At the center of the conversation will be the quarterbacks. As such, Monday's viewing of practice brought fodder. Paxton Lynch enjoyed arguably his best media-viewed workout as a pro. He completed two terrific long touchdown passes to receiver Demaryius Thomas.
"He had a great day," coach Vance Joseph said. "That's fair."
Joseph praised the offense in general after an admittedly uneven performance last week, including a lackluster performance on Thursday. Trevor Siemian was not as sharp, but showed nuance in buying time on multiple scrambles. He kept his eyes downfield -- something stressed to him last season -- and delivered a touchdown strike down the seam for a touchdown. Siemian also had a pass deflected in the red zone by improved defensive lineman Adam Gotsis and misfired to receiver Jordan Taylor. Siemian began today with the first team in practice, but ceded the role, as planned, to Lynch during practice. He did the opposite at a previous practice. This is by design from McCoy as he continues to teach and develop the quarterbacks.
Lynch guided two scores, but also threw an interception to second-year safety Justin Simmons. In the end, the improvement of the unit defined the practice.
"It was a good day for the offense," Joseph said.
Are you not entertained?
Derek Wolfe continues to provide refreshing candor in his press conferences. He has emerged as a leader in the locker room, and has no qualms in sharing his opinion. The defensive end took exception to being asked if he anticipates a confrontation with rookie left tackle Garett Bolles.
"I am not looking to fight. Why do you bring that up?" he asked.
A reporter (not me) said because it would be entertaining.
"I am not here for your entertainment," Wolfe said in his mic drop moment.
Footnotes
Star linebacker Von Miller did not attend practice Monday after watching the NBA Finals from courtside on Sunday in Oakland. Miller told Joseph he would be there, and he appreciated it. These are voluntary workouts so a player is not required to attend.
Bolles showed good balance and footwork during drills. He also finished on running plays. remaining engaged with his man.
Ty Sambrailo and Donald Stephenson continue to get reps at left tackle. Sambrailo provides an interesting case. If he's healthy, can he he contribute? He moves his feet well, and has shown better upper body strength during practices.
