ENGLEWOOD — Cody Barton returns to face the team that launched his NFL career.

The Broncos linebacker appeared in 78 games over four Seahawks seasons (2019-22) as a third-round draft pick. His football life comes full circle on Sunday at Lumen Field. Barton still appreciates mentorship from previous Seattle teammates like Bobby Wagner and K.J. Wright.

“I didn’t get to play my first three years in the league. Just doing special teams. As frustrating as that was, that was also a chance for me to learn for those years I was sitting behind them,” Barton said. “Not only watch, but also talk to them, get experience from them and get those little nuggets as a linebacker.”

That’s enough for nostalgia.

Barton signed in free agency after playing last season with the Commanders and is eager for his Broncos debut in Week 1, starting beside team captain Alex Singleton at inside linebacker. Barton said that following a long training camp and preseason there “is an intensity and a mental focus. It’s almost like you can just feel it in the air.” That extends to a traditionally difficult road environment in Seattle.

“Communication is vital,” Barton said. “Even being a first-year player, there are no more excuses for me not learning the defense. I had the spring to do that. I had the first few weeks of camp to do that. I feel very good about the defense.”

Singleton discussed Barton’s potential on Friday from his locker room stall at Broncos Park.

“He’s a fast, physical player,” Singleton said. “And he’s smart. He’s been in the league. It makes it easy to play with him.”

Mims begins Year 2

Marvin Mims Jr. made the Pro Bowl last year as a kick returner but wasn’t a significant factor in the Broncos offense.

The rookie wide receiver hauled in 22 receptions for 377 yards and one touchdown. Is Mims primed for a greater role in his second season?

“I think every receiver in the league wants to be more involved in the offense,” Mims said. “I’ve just being doing whatever I can do to help. We have a room full of tall guys. Me being a smaller guy, I bring something different to the table.”

Mims is encouraged by the leadership displayed by starting quarterback Bo Nix entering Week 1.

“He’s a great guy,” Mims said. “He’s been doing real good since he’s been here. He’s real confident. I feel like that’s the thing that pops out the most. … Especially being a rookie. You definitely get the vibe that he’s ready to go. So, I’m excited to see what he does Sunday.”

Briefly

Seahawks offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb, formerly at the University of Washington, has never been an NFL play caller. Defensive coordinator Vance Joseph said earlier this week: “It’s somewhat challenging because you’re not sure what else he has obviously from college to now. We can’t worry about that. Our system should handle most of it.” … The National Weather Forecast projects of high temperature of 80 degrees in Seattle with sunny conditions for Week 1. … Since the AFL-NFL merger, the Broncos have the league’s highest winning percentage in season-opening games (.660).