Broncos' Surtain hypes rookie Nix: 'He's looking very confident'

Denver Broncos star cornerback Pat Surtain has complete confidence in rookie quarterback Bo Nix.

"He's very composed," Surtain told Kay Adams on the "Up & Adams show." "He understands the offense very well, obviously his chemistry with Court (Sutton), Tim (Patrick), and Josh (Reynolds) stands out. He's taking command of the huddle, taking control, and he's looking very confident."

Nix shined in his preseason debut with the Broncos, racking up 142 yards and one score while completing 71% of his passes. He led the team in pass attempts and exited in the third quarter after stepping in for starter Jarrett Stidham.

Head coach Sean Payton was thrilled with what he saw from his young signal-caller.

"His decision-making was good," Payton said, per Zac Stevens of DNVR. "I felt he was comfortable in the pocket. Thought his locations were good."

Payton added: "The No. 1 thing to do at quarterback is lead your team (to points). We scored ... I liked the production with his group while he was in there, and, ultimately, that's their job."

Denver selected Nix No. 12 overall this year out of Oregon. The 24-year-old is battling Stidham and Zach Wilson for the starting job, but Payton has hesitated to name the Broncos' Week 1 leader.

"Every one of us recognizes the significance of getting that position settled and having (someone at) that position who we feel like we can win with," Payton said, per Kevin Patra of NFL Network. "When that is unsettled, it's tough on your team.

"It's a good group to work with, and I know the offensive coaches feel that way. I feel that way. I like where we're at right now, and that's encouraging for our team."

Denver will host the Green Bay Packers for its second preseason contest Sunday.