Broncos preseason finale: 3 things to watch against Minnesota Vikings
The NFL preseason is almost over.
The Broncos host the Vikings at 7 p.m. Friday at Empower Field in their third and final preseason game. The Broncos beat the Falcons, 27-7, and lost to the Packers, 33-13, earlier in the preseason.
Here are three things to watch between the Broncos and Vikings.
No. 2 QB
Coach Sean Payton said starting quarterback Bo Nix “probably won’t play” against Minnesota in the final preseason game. No surprise. Nix looked healthy and was productive in two series against the Packers. Now, it’s time to solidify his backup.
Payton has not named a No. 2 quarterback or confirmed if the Broncos will keep two or three quarterbacks on their 53-man roster. But it feels like Jarrett Stidham’s job to lose. He looked great against the Falcons. Not so much against the Packers.
Ehlinger might have more NFL upside. But he needs to prove it against the Vikings.
Outside linebacker
The Broncos are still awaiting possible NFL discipline for outside linebacker Jonathon Cooper stemming from domestic violence charges in June. Cooper might face a multiple-game suspension regardless of how the case is legally resolved.
There are several edge rushers in line for more opportunity if Cooper is unavailable. The list begins with Jonah Elliss. He’s accounted for 7.5 sacks over two seasons while playing on 38% of total defensive snaps.
Don’t be surprised if Dondrea Tillman and Que Robinson also take advantage.
Running back
The running back pecking order seems clear entering Week 1: J.K. Dobbins, RJ Harvey and Jonah Coleman.
But it’s unclear if the Broncos will keep three or four running backs on the active roster. Jaleel McLaughlin and Tyler Badie appear to be on the bubble. The decision whether to start fullback Adam Prentice squad on the practice squad or active roster is another factor.
A breakout performance in the final preseason game might dictate the team’s decision making.





