A full-time job for Broncos' practice squad players

ENGLEWOOD – Chris Baker hasn’t been active for the Denver Broncos yet this season, and Everette Pedescleaux is on the practice squad. Yet, the two rookie defensive linemen get plenty of coaching attention.

At 7:30 a.m., before the rest of the Broncos report to work during the week, Baker and Pedescleaux have a daily 30-minute meeting with defensive line coach Wayne Nunnely. He goes over practice film the way he breaks down game film with his regulars.

“It’s really a great session,” Nunnely said. “Not only do I correct them, but I have them correct themselves on their technique. It’s important they understand.”

Broncos coach Josh McDaniels requires his assistant coaches be good teachers. Perhaps one of the reasons the Broncos are 3-0 despite new schemes on both sides of the ball is the coaches’ ability to relay information.

“Some guys learn quickly from the mouth,” McDaniels said. “Some guys need it on the board. Some guys need it on the board, on film, from the mouth, walkthrough and practice it twice, and then they have got it.

“That is just the way this game is. Every player is different, and I think that is part of being a good coach is figuring out, ‘How do I have to teach my players because they are not all the same guy?’”

Baker, who played well in training camp and preseason, said he hopes all the extra coaching pays off.

“It’s helpful,” Baker said. “You get a mental picture so when you get a chance to play in a game, you know how to react.”