The Denver Broncos' preseason opener against the Atlanta Falcons was a showcase of talent, strategy, and the ever-present ebb and flow of the NFL. While the final score of 27-7 may not have been a shock, the game revealed a lot about the team's depth, potential, and areas that need improvement. Let's dive into the winners and losers, but remember, in the NFL, every game is a learning experience, and sometimes, the losers can become the winners of tomorrow. So, let's not be too hard on anyone just yet.
Winners
QB Jarrett Stidham
Jarrett Stidham, the veteran backup quarterback, had a stellar performance that could very well secure his position as the backup to the starting quarterback. His 9-for-15 passing for 131 yards and a touchdown was impressive, especially considering he was playing with the starters while Sam Ehlinger had the third-team unit. Stidham's ability to lead the offense to multiple touchdowns and his 40-yard throw to Courtland Sutton were highlights of the game. In my opinion, Stidham's performance was a clear indicator that he is the better quarterback and should be the backup come Week 1. However, I do think Ehlinger will get his chance with the second-team offense next week, but we'll see how that plays out.
CB Jahdae Barron
Jahdae Barron, the 2025 first-round pick, needed a night like this. His pick-6 touchdown was a highlight, and unlike his previous performance against the Chiefs, this one wasn't called back due to a bogus penalty. Barron played well before the pick-6, with a few PBUs, a near second INT, and an active and aggressive performance in the run game. This showing was exactly what we needed to see from Barron, and hopefully, he can build on this performance, continue to develop, and become a weapon for the Broncos' secondary.
RB Jonah Coleman
Rookie Jonah Coleman proved that he deserves touches early and often this season. In his limited touches, Coleman showcased a good burst, vision, balance, and power, looking like a damn good running back. Head coach Sean Payton's praise after the game further solidified Coleman's potential. As a runner, Coleman should be the Broncos' RB2 and split carries with veteran RJ Harvey. While Harvey excels in space and the passing game, Coleman is far superior when it comes to running between the tackles.
FB Adam Prentice
The fullback position may be dying in the NFL, but with the Denver Broncos, it's an important piece of their team and offense. Veteran Adam Prentice was productive as the Broncos' short-yardage back, including a one-yard touchdown run in the first quarter. Prentice has become a key member of the team, used as a short-yardage runner, pass catcher, and pass blocker, and he contributes on special teams. You need players like this on your roster, and Prentice is a good one who the coaches love.
WR Courtland Sutton
Sutton caught a 40-yard bomb on the first drive and made an unbelievable one-handed catch with a defender all over him. Maybe the load management is paying off? Sutton's performance was a welcome sight, and it's interesting to see how he's been utilized this preseason.
Other Notable Winners
- EDGE Jonathon Cooper: He looked quick and unblockable early on, despite dealing with off-the-field legal issues. Cooper's performance was a bright spot for the Broncos' defense.
- DL Eyioma Uwazurike: The big defensive lineman has had a strong camp and played the JFM role tonight for the Broncos.
- WR Pat Bryant: He didn't play for long, but when he did, he made plays, as he has all summer.
- WR Joseph Manjack: The undrafted rookie had a nice connection with QB Sam Ehlinger and had 3 catches for 40 yards.
- JL Skinner: He was one of the few safeties that really popped for me tonight. He's a big hitter and stands out on the field. Maybe he should play some linebacker?
- LB Red Murdock: He seemed to be around the ball all night and led the team in tackles.
- CB Riley Moss: Had an INT, which was good to see.
- EDGE Drew Sanders: Had a sack!
- Broncos Depth: The Broncos were down Bo Nix, Jaylen Waddle, Wattenberg, Dobbins, and some other key players and still outplayed and dominated the Falcons when it mattered early on.
Losers
QB Sam Ehlinger
Sam Ehlinger's quest to become the Broncos' backup quarterback may have ended tonight. While he didn't play badly, he struggled to get much going with the third-team offense. Ehlinger finished the night with 10-for-14 passing for 67 yards and an additional 23 yards rushing, but he did have a near interception and struggled to get the offense moving consistently in the second half. I think this battle is likely over with after tonight's performance, and Ehlinger may get his chance with the second-team offense next week.
RB Jaleel McLaughlin
Jaleel McLaughlin is a loser for me, despite having a nice touchdown catch and run. He also fumbled the ball, which is a huge no-no for a running back, especially when you're on the roster bubble. McLaughlin looked like his usual self, but coming in behind RJ Harvey and rookie Jonah Coleman, the fumble likely hasn't helped his odds of making the team. He needs to have a strong few weeks if he wants to make the team.
Broncos Reserve Special Teams
Special teams play can make or break a roster, and the Broncos had some sloppy play in the second half. Backup long snapper Luke Basso had a botched snap, leading to a field goal attempt that didn't go well. Then, on another field goal attempt, kicker Wil Lutz had to rush a 55-yard field goal due to reserve offensive lineman Matt Peart running on the field late. These mistakes cannot happen when special teams play decides who gets those final few spots on a roster. Basso, competing for the long snapper job, cannot afford to have bad snaps.
TEs
The Broncos tight ends were quiet once again, with Engram having a few targets and one nice catch-and-run. While Engram showed some promise, the tight ends as a whole need to step up and make more plays.
Penalties
The Broncos had 8 flags in this game, with most of them coming in the second half. This was a fairly sloppy half of football for the Broncos, and penalties can kill momentum and drive. While penalties are a part of the game, the Broncos need to clean up their penalties to play their best football.
Deeper Analysis
The Broncos' preseason opener revealed a lot about the team's depth and potential. While the starters dominated early, the second- and third-team units showed that there is still work to be done. The team's depth is a strength, but it's also a reminder that the Broncos need to be prepared for any situation that comes their way. The game also highlighted the importance of special teams play and the need for consistency in the second half.
Takeaway
The Denver Broncos' preseason opener was a learning experience for the team, and while there were winners and losers, the game also showed the potential for growth and improvement. The team has a strong core, and with the right adjustments and focus, they can be a force to be reckoned with in the NFL. As for the winners and losers, well, in the NFL, every game is a new beginning, and sometimes, the losers can become the winners of tomorrow.
