The Denver Broncos wrapped up their preseason campaign with a 1-1-1 record, showing flashes of potential but also exposing areas needing improvement. The Broncos secured a narrow 25-21 win over the Arizona Cardinals, suffered a high-scoring 55-36 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and finished with a dramatic 28-28 tie against the Green Bay Packers. While the offense displayed efficiency at times, the defense struggled to find consistency.
Offense Shows Promise but Needs Refinement
The Broncos’ offense averaged 426.7 total yards per game, ranking sixth overall, with a strong emphasis on the passing game. They managed 306.3 passing yards per game (8th) while rushing for 120.3 yards per game (8th). However, scoring efficiency was a concern, with the team posting 29 points per game, ranking just above average at 15th.
Gardner Minshew II led the passing attack, completing 60% of his passes for 537 yards, five touchdowns, and three interceptions. Bo Nix was highly efficient, completing 77.8% of his passes for 199 yards and two touchdowns. Hendon Hooker and Jordan Travis also saw action, combining for 218 yards and two touchdowns.
In the rushing game, Donovan Edwards emerged as the lead back, averaging 6.8 yards per carry on 24 attempts for 163 yards. Dylan Edwards contributed 57 yards and a touchdown, while Javonte Williams added a rushing touchdown with his limited touches.
The receiving corps saw a balanced distribution, with Marvin Mims Jr. leading the way with 242 yards and three touchdowns on nine receptions. Tight end Greg Dulcich (118 yards) and Dontayvion Wicks (108 yards) also made key contributions.
Defensive Struggles Raise Concerns
While the Broncos’ offense showed flashes of explosiveness, the defense struggled, ranking 28th overall by allowing 429 yards per game. The secondary was particularly vulnerable, surrendering 309.3 passing yards per game (27th), while the rush defense allowed 119.7 yards per game (28th). The team gave up an average of 34 points per game, ranking a disappointing 26th.
Individually, Alontae Taylor led the team in tackles with 10, while Camryn Bynum and Kylon Griffin contributed 9 and 8 tackles, respectively. The defense recorded six sacks, with A.J. Epenesa and Nik Bonitto each tallying 1.5. The secondary did manage to snag 10 interceptions, with Derwin James Jr. and Alontae Taylor each recording one. As well as Derwin being able to punch the rock out twice.
Final Thoughts and Season Outlook
The Broncos’ preseason was a tale of two units—the offense showed efficiency and promise, while the defense struggled with consistency. Minshew’s command of the offense and the emergence of young playmakers like Marvin Mims Jr. and Donovan Edwards are positive takeaways. However, the defense must improve in all areas if the team hopes to compete in the regular season.
With the preseason in the books, the Broncos must tighten up their defensive schemes and find more balance offensively as they head into the regular season. If they can address these concerns, they could be a dangerous team in the upcoming campaign.
