The tempers flared when the heat seemed to reach its peak. First the scrum gathered at the 20-yard line, then a helmet flew, and a few choice words were issued before the players were pulled away from one another and team drills resumed. Defensive end Derek Wolfe, who days earlier joked that he’s typically been in at least a few fights by Day 2 of camp, was in there. As was center Connor McGovern.



Shortly after, another skirmish unfolded, with pushing and cursing before coach Vic Fangio quickly stepped in and broke it up.



The Broncos’ first of six scheduled afternoon practices featured full pads and near 95-degree heat that felt even warmer as the sun, unobstructed, beat down on the field. Fans watching from afar gathered tightly in the one sliver of shade that cut down the middle of the grassy berm, and players already drenched in sweat were cooled with cold towels.



Maybe it was the heat that got the blood flowing. Maybe it was simply inevitable...