Broncos Backups Shine in Preseason Finale Victory
The Denver Broncos defeated the Minnesota Vikings 34-6 in their preseason finale, with backups performing well. Offensive lineman Kage Casey earned the highest grade, while running back Cody Schrader continued to impress. The team now faces tough roster decisions.
The Broncos' 34-6 preseason finale win over Minnesota marked a significant rebound after a poor outing against Green Bay, with Denver's depth players stepping up to complicate final roster cuts. Offensive lineman Kage Casey rebounded from a rough game at right tackle by returning to the left side and posting the team's top grade, while running back Cody Schrader continued his strong preseason against second-unit defenders. Quarterback Sam Ehlinger handled pressure well and made the backup decision more difficult, though he remains unlikely to make the 53-man roster. Calvin Throckmorton's solid play at center, a position he rarely plays, adds another layer of difficulty to roster decisions, especially with Alex Forsyth sidelined by injury throughout camp. Matt Peart's consistent play at tackle positions him ahead of the injured Frank Crum for a backup role.
This preseason performance could influence roster decisions that affect the Broncos' depth for the regular season, potentially shaping the team's resilience if injuries strike. Strong showings from fringe players like Schrader and Throckmorton may also impact other NFL teams, as waived players could be claimed elsewhere. For fans, the game offers cautious optimism about depth quality, though preseason success against backups rarely predicts regular-season outcomes. The broader effect is limited but real: roster battles determine who plays professionally and who seeks opportunities elsewhere.