Broncos fans: We want Bo Nix

If fans had their way, Denver Broncos ' first-round draft pick Bo Nix would start for the team this season.

Reality check: The former Oregon quarterback is buried in the team's unofficial depth chart , behind the team's projected starter, Jarrett Stidham, and second-stringer, Zach Wilson.

The big picture: Fans we spoke to during the team's practice at Dove Valley on Thursday say Nix has the tools and mentality to start.

• Supporters are painfully familiar with the team's struggle in the post-Peyton Manning era and the revolving door of pocket passers since 2016.

What they're saying: "He's our first real shot at something new and different," Jesse Bell of Denver says.

• Bell says Nix, 24, is a bit more mature and older than most rookie quarterbacks.

James Smith tells us he's been a Broncos fan since age 13 — he celebrated his 40th birthday Wednesday — and visited Dove Valley all the way from Victorville, California.

• Sporting a Manning jersey on the sidelines, Smith says Nix was starting to get a better handle on head coach Sean Payton's offense . Payton is known as an offensive guru.
• "I think by the time game one starts, it should be Bo Nix," Smith says.

What's next: The Broncos will play a preseason game at the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday.