ENGLEWOOD — Broncos quarterback Bo Nix is proving his growth to defensive teammates.

Safety Brandon Jones discussed how Nix has progressed entering his second NFL season after practice Thursday at Broncos Park.

“His comfort level has been amazing,” Jones said. “You can see that he truly understands the defense, depending on the front (and) coverages that we’re in. He understands the beaters that come with the certain coverages that you play. … I’ve seen him make that jump from a game-to-game basis last year. And I think he’s miles from even where we ended the season.

“So, I’m super happy and excited for him.”

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Meinerz talks preseason

Broncos starters are expected to play between “8 to 10” snaps on Saturday in their final preseason game against the Saints, coach Sean Payton said. Starting right guard Quin Meinerz embraces the opportunity.

“It’s always a privilege to play in a game,” Meinerz said Thursday. “Everyone has their own systems and beliefs in playing starters or not playing starters (in the preseason). I like that we play, because I don’t want my first game-like snap, especially getting ready for this season, to be against (Titans defensive tackle) Jeffery Simmons. … I don’t want that.

“So, I’m glad that I get to play in these games. Take the techniques that I’m learning and working on every single day and putting them into a game. Because it doesn’t necessarily matter if you’re executing in practice. We get judged on our 17 games in the regular season.”

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Rod Smith visits

Former Broncos wide receiver Rod Smith visited practice Thursday. Smith, inducted into the teams’ Ring of Fame in 2012, finished his pro career with 849 catches for 11,389 yards receiving and 68 touchdowns. He helped the Broncos win two Super Bowls and earned three Pro Bowl bids.

Payton said it was “fantastic” to spend time with Smith.

“I told (Smith): I would have loved to have been able to coach you,” Payton said. “All of the stories I’ve heard — his toughness, his unselfishness and his journey — that’s inspiring. … He’s got a big personality, and you can just feel being around him, his passion for this team and the fans here. I love when these guys come around.”

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Barron held out

First-round rookie cornerback Jahdae Barron did not join practice Thursday. But it does not appear to be a long-term concern for the University of Texas product taken No. 20 overall in the draft.

“He’s fine,” Payton said regarding Barron. “We held him out. Just soft tissue (muscle issue). … We anticipate him playing (against the Saints).”

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Briefly

RB Jaleel McLaughlin has missed two practices due to the recent birth of his child. Payton said he thinks McLaughlin will play Saturday at New Orleans. … Also not practicing on Thursday were FB Michael Burton, DT Kristian Williams, DB Reese Taylor, TE Nate Adkins and LB Drew Sanders. … Payton said that Adkins likely won’t start the season on short-term injured reserve following an ankle procedure, but he doesn’t know if Adkins will be ready for Week 1 against the Titans.