NFL mandatory minicamp news: Nix's return headlines five key takeaways

NFL mandatory minicamps got underway for 12 more teams this week, marking the last offseason activity before pads come on in late July.

While the helmets aren't on yet, the storylines are coming thick and fast, from the return of Broncos' Bo Nix to a quarterback battle in Atlanta among the key takeaways.

Here are the five biggest things to know from minicamps this week.

Broncos' Nix returns, will be "full go" in July

Denver's starting quarterback fractured his ankle in the closing minutes of the 33-30 Divisional round win over the Buffalo Bills and had two surgeries on the injury in the offseason.

He returned to practice on Tuesday, albeit in a limited capacity, and head coach Sean Payton said Nix will be "full go" once training camp opens.

Nix went one further, telling reporters, "I could go full-go right now if they wanted me to."

Wheels up for Denver as the offense looks to reach new levels with the help of offseason arrival Jaylen Waddle.

Pickens back in the Cowboys fold

Pickens, who skipped the voluntary sessions in early June after failing to get a long-term deal, showed up to camp on Tuesday.

With fines hanging over him if he didn't, it was expected he would make an appearance. Nonetheless, it was great news for Dak Prescott and Co. to have such a talented player back on the field.

Pickens told NFL Network's Jane Slater he has no plans to hold out.

One less storyline for Dallas to worry about heading into camp.

Tua gets a head start in Atlanta

Michael Penix Jr. is still working back from a torn ACL and hasn't been cleared for 11-on-11 work, which leaves Tua Tagovailoa with the keys for now.

"We'll see," is all head coach Kevin Stefanski offered on the possibility that Penix could return for 11-on-11s.

While the situation gives Tua a temporary advantage in the quarterback battle, Stefanski isn't being forced into an early decision.

Titans' Ward and Tate build chemistry early

The Titans are backing Carnell Tate, selected fourth overall in the 2026 NFL Draft, to be a true number one, and the early signs back that up.

Ward has been targeting Tate frequently since OTAs, helping to build an early rapport between the two, with Tate calling Ward "a dog."

If these reps pay dividends once the season rolls around, and with Calvin Ridley and Wan'Dale Robinson also at wideout, Ward could take a major leap in year two.

Chargers' Justin Herbert rebuilding footwork

New offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel wants Herbert to be quicker through his drop and cleaner with his footwork.

Herbert has cut throwing out of his routine one day a week, using that time purely to drill the new mechanics without a ball in hand.

Wideout Ladd McConkey also stressed the importance of gaining more yards after the catch in McDaniel's new offense.

Stay tuned for more headlines from minicamps around the league tomorrow.