Broncos Need Answers To These Questions In Atlanta Tonight

The Denver Broncos will take the field for their first preseason game tonight against the Atlanta Falcons, and these are the questions Parker Gabriel of the Denver Post posed as the ones that will be the focal point for the action. 

Who makes a move in the backupquarterback race?

Coach Sean Payton has downplayed the backup quarterback race, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t one. Both Sam Ehlinger and Jarrett Stidham will play a half each against Atlanta tonight, and while the decision is probably weeks away, this is a chance for one of the two QBs to make a move. 

For new offensive coordinator Davis Webb, it’s a chance to see what he’s got. 

“They’ve been great,” Webb said recently. ‘Stiddy,’ he’s in Year 4 (in Denver). He’s spot played for us very well. Sam has grown tremendously from last year to this year. We’re really fortunate to have three really good quarterbacks. Not every organization can say that. We can. And we trust all three if they had to play.

“I’m really looking forward to those guys in the preseason.”

How will Jordan Coleman and the rookies fare?

The running back is the big name among the running backs, and he’s flashed during OTAs and minicamp. All signs point to him playing a role of some sort, and it could be a big one. 

The other rookies aren’t as significant. Defensive lineman Tyler Onyedim isn’t high on the depth chart right now, and neither is offensive lineman Kage Casey. The one rookie lineman who could get a good look is center Gavin Ortega, as the Broncos have had a run of injuries at his position. 

Can camp standouts carry their momentum into games?

Multiple Broncos players have played well in camp, but the ones who have stood out the most are cornerback Riley Moss, receiver Pat Bryant and defensive line Eyioma Uwazurike. Moss is facing an especially big season, while Bryant is competing for targets and playing time in a crowded receivers group. 

Uwazurike has been flagged as the player who could pick up some of the sacks and big plays posted by John Franklin-Myers last year before he left to join the Tennessee Titans in free agency. All three will be closely watched tonight to see if they can maintain their early momentum. 

What exactly is the plan at tight end?  

The Broncos are expected to try and get more from tight end Evan Engram, but Denver surprised everyone by not making a big move to upgrade the position. Rookie Justin Joly was the closest thing to a serious add, but he’s had a quiet camp so far, so everyone is wondering how the Broncos will get more from this group as a whole, especially if Engram struggles again.