Broncos Final Roster Projection Shifts After Preseason Rout
Denver's 34-6 preseason win over Minnesota altered the final roster picture, with about 45 spots already locked. The team must cut to 53 by Sunday, and the practice squad will include several notable names. Running back Cody Schrader's strong performance pushed him to the practice squad despite a 100-yard scrimmage night.
Denver’s preseason finale against Minnesota provided a clear final audition, with running back Cody Schrader leading all depth backs by surpassing 100 scrimmage yards. Despite that output, the team’s preference for Jaleel McLaughlin and Tyler Badie—both known to head coach Sean Payton—pushed Schrader to the practice squad. The roster appears largely settled, with roughly 45 of 53 spots effectively locked before Sunday’s deadline. Quarterback Sam Ehlinger also lands on the practice squad after repeatedly choosing Denver over other offers, while injuries to Marvin Mims Jr. and Caleb Lohner create minor uncertainty at receiver and tight end.
The Broncos’ final cuts will be announced by Sunday at 2 p.m. MDT, with initial releases expected Saturday. Practice squad construction remains fluid, especially at receiver and tight end, where Payton’s trusted veterans like Lil’Jordan Humphrey and Michael Bandy are likely to stick. Offensive tackle Frank Crum’s injury status could shift the tackle group, but Matt Peart appears to have edged him out for the third tackle spot.
This roster projection signals a relatively stable Broncos squad entering the season, which could reduce early-season turbulence for fans and fantasy players. The decision to keep only three running backs and rely on a practice squad for depth may affect game-day flexibility if injuries occur. For players like Schrader, the practice squad offers a path but no immediate playing time. The team’s confidence in its top 45 suggests a clearer identity, potentially boosting morale and consistency, though any late injury could force quick adjustments.