Marvin Mims Jr. was a blur.
In the second quarter of last week’s loss to Washington, Denver’s rookie wide receiver fielded a punt from his team’s 15-yard and took off. He maneuvered past a defender before cutting to the outside, taking advantage of the open field near the sideline for a 45-yard return to Washington’s 40.
On a sour Sunday afternoon, Mims’ return and kicker Wil Lutz going 2 for 2 on field goal attempts highlighted an encouraging day for the special teams unit. They are hoping to build on the performance Sunday against the Miami Dolphins.
“Marvin was able to make a guy miss, which shows his short-area quickness, and then he was able to outrun some people,” special teams coordinator Ben Kotwica said. “Not every week you have a long return like that.”
Mims’ return was just one part of a promising performance for the second-round pick. He caught two passes for 113 yards and a touchdown, finishing with the most all-purpose yards (168) by a Bronco in a single game since running back Javonte Williams’ 178 yards in 2021 against the Kansas City Chiefs.
“It’s a number of different things that (Mims) excels at,” head coach Sean Payton said. “He played well last week.”
Kotwica was pleased with how Lutz bounced back after he botched an extra point and missed a 55-yard field goal in Week 1 against Las Vegas. Kotwica thought Lutz still getting used to a new field and special teams unit played a factor in his early struggles.
“Wil has been in New Orleans for a long period of time,” Kotwica said. “Just getting familiar with the surface. We went over (to Empower Field at Mile High) a couple of weeks ago, and that’s something we are always open to do.”
Injury Report
Broncos safety Justin Simmons (hip) did not practice for the second straight day, as his availability for Sunday’s matchup against the Dolphins is in question. Outside linebacker Frank Clark (hip) and defensive tackle Mike Purcell (ankle) were also sidelined, while left tackle Garett Bolles (ankle) was a full participant after being limited on Thursday.
For the Dolphins, wide receiver Jaylen Waddle (concussion) and running back Salvon Ahmed (groin) did not practice on Thursday. Offensive tackle Terron Armstead (back/ankle/knee), linebacker Jaelan Phillips (back), defensive back Elijah Campbell (knee), defensive tackle Raekwon Davis (wrist), and tight ends Julian Hill (ankle) and Tyler Kroft (back) were limited participants.
Starting cornerback Xavien Howard (rest) returned to practice Thursday. Wide receiver Tyreek Hill (ankle) and linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel (ankle) were full participants after being limited on Wednesday.
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