The Denver Broncos just handed the Minnesota Vikings a 34-6 blowout loss in their final preseason game, and honestly, the score isn’t even the biggest story here. Head coach Sean Payton now has a legitimate headache trying to figure out his final 53-man roster and who’s going to sneak onto the 16-man practice squad. Why? Because a bunch of guys absolutely lit it up, making some seriously strong cases for themselves.
Schrader Went Full Beast Mode, Ehlinger Looked Sharp
Talk about a statement performance! Cody Schrader absolutely killed it at running back. The dude can run, he can catch out of the backfield, and he can block. He racked up over 100 yards from scrimmage and even snagged a touchdown on a broken play in the back of the end zone. That kind of versatility and raw talent? He might actually cost Jaleel McLaughlin his roster spot. No joke, Schrader came to play.
Then there’s Sam Ehlinger, who had a really good showing against the Vikings. Carrying a third quarterback might not be what Payton ideally wants, but Ehlinger showed he can definitely hold down a spot on an NFL roster. He went 15/20 for 233 yards and tossed three touchdowns. I don’t care who it was against, those numbers are worthy of note. You know the Broncos want to keep him around, and other teams are probably already eyeing him for a true backup gig.
Murdock’s Turnover Talent and Joly’s Jaw-Dropping Play
Red Murdock might have had a quiet night on the tackle side with just four total, but he made his presence felt with a critical forced fumble. That’s his reputation, right? Turnover creator! It’s tough because he and Taurean York both look like playmakers, but can two rookie inside linebackers really make the active roster? One probably gets the spot, the other likely heads to the practice squad, but honestly, we might be seeing the future unfold at that position.
And let’s not forget Justin Joly. He didn’t exactly jump off the screen in the first two preseason games, but his 88-yard touchdown grab from Sam Ehlinger in the fourth quarter against the Vikings? Incredible. That play alone solidified his spot as one of the depth tight ends on the roster. It just goes to show the big-time plays he made in college are translating. Hopefully, that’s just the first of many touchdowns he scores in his career.
Now, Payton has some brutal decisions ahead before the regular season kicks off. With performances like these, the competition is fierce, and it’s going to be a nail-biter to see who makes the cut for the Broncos.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Mile High Report.
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