“I think one of the benefits of this time of the year is, and we really try to move guys around in first group, second group, give some veteran players maybe a period where they’re not in, and then even in training camp,” Payton said after Thursday’s practice. “So ultimately when they’re in pads in live situations or full contact situations, even in the preseason games, you’ll get a chance to see and probably have a better evaluation of each player. This is the time of the year to do that.”

Turns out that the players are really excited to get back on the field and start doing their jobs again.

“It’s amazing,” said Talanoa Hufanga, noting the defense stayed mostly intact. “We’re super excited to get this ball rolling. It starts fresh every year, so we are 0-0 right now, and we have to prove it again.”

A new twist this year is also checking in on new offensive coordinator Davis Webb, who will take over play-calling duties this season. Even though there isn’t a lot of play calling right now, the way players respond will be fun to watch.

“The guy is a mad scientist when it comes to the offensive game,” said Courtland Sutton about his new boss. “I know that he is ready and being able to listen to the way he coaches and the way he is teaching the terminology to us on the field and in the classroom has been amazing. I’m looking forward to continuing to learn from him and continuing to pick his offensive brain because he is like a mad scientist.”

Yep, a lot to pay attention to.