ENGLEWOOD — Bo Nix is nearing a return to Broncos practice.

The third-year starting quarterback observed offseason training activities (OTAs) on Thursday during practice at Broncos Park. In January, Nix suffered a fractured ankle in the AFC divisional round playoff win over the Bills. In April, he underwent a second cleanup surgery that led Nix to miss OTAs.

Coach Sean Payton spoke with reporters after Thursday’s practice with an encouraging Nix update.

“You don’t see the pre-practice, but he’s been throwing,” Payton said. “And I do think in our third week, when you guys are out here for three straight days, I think you’ll see. You’ll see more of a role. … It would be our third week, which would be minicamp.”

The Broncos will lean on their returning backup, Jarrett Stidham, and returning third-string quarterback, Sam Ehlinger, over the course of OTAs. Stidham started in the AFC Championship Game loss to the Patriots, 10-7, with Nix injured. Ehlinger re-signed with the Broncos in March.

Payton said Ehlinger’s grasp of the playbook has improved “considerably” with understanding of terminology and rhythm in the offense.

Hufanga’s goals

Talanoa Hufanga earned second-team All-Pro recognition in his first season with the Broncos.

The veteran NFL safety is still seeking improvement. Specifically, with capitalizing on turnovers. Hufanga logged zero interceptions last season despite numerous opportunities.

“I got back on the JUGS (machine),” Hufanga said. “The reason why I couldn’t get on the Jugs last year — this is an excuse, I’ll be honest — I was coming off my wrist surgery. … It came from wearing a club during the game and that was really uncomfortable and really hard. My hand-eye coordination was not great. But that is an excuse. I own up to it, and I’ve got to be better for the team.”

OC Davis Webb a ‘mad scientist’

Ex-quarterbacks coach Davis Webb is earning strong reviews in his start as offensive coordinator and play caller for the Broncos.

“The guy is a mad scientist when it comes to the offensive game,” wide receiver Courtland Sutton said. “He spent the past three years now being able to learn the game under coach Payton, who we all know is an offensive genius. … It’s ultimately allowed him to be able to master this offense that he has been able to put together. It’s a combination of things that he has learned from Coach Payton and things that he has liked and seen from his own experience of playing and coaching in this league.

“I know he is ready.”

Briefly

Jonah Ellis practiced with the outside linebackers during practice on Thursday. He will also see work at inside linebacker moving forward. … The Broncos hosted more than 200 high school football coaches from across the state on Thursday to watch the practice. Payton said: “Every one of these (players), myself included, are impacted by our high school coaches. Mine was tremendous and had a lot to do with why I’m sitting here right now.” … The following Broncos were not in attendance during practice: WR Michael Woods, OL Alex Forsyth, OL Nick Gargiulo and TE Caleb Lohner. … Several players wore shirts with the letters G.T.D on the front after practice. It is an acronym for “going the distance.” … The Broncos will not have joint NFL practices in training camp, Payton said.