Here’s a look at which players improved their stock or watched it decline after the Broncos’ 27-2 win over the Packers in the preseason opener at Empower Field at Mile High Stadium on Sunday evening.
Stock Up
WR Tim Patrick: It took two years, but Patrick was able to cross the goal line once again, scoring on a 2-yard play-action pass from Bo Nix in the first quarter. Patrick, who is returning from back-to-back season-ending injuries, was the Broncos’ top receiver against Green Bay. He had four catches for 30 yards on four targets. After the additions of Josh Reynolds, and rookie wideouts Troy Franklin and Devaughn Vele, Patrick appeared to have an uphill climb to make the roster, given his age and injury history. Now, it will be hard for Payton to keep him off the team.
Safety Keidron Smith: Smith has done his best to make a case for a spot in Denver’s secondary. He has recorded two interceptions in two preseason games, including a pick in the second quarter against Green Bay that resulted in a 56-yard return. Hard to imagine a better way to make a good impression.
OLB Jonah Elliss: Elliss might have been the best defensive player on the field. The former Utah standout had three tackles, a sack and forced fumble. His strip-sack in the third quarter helped set up a field goal from kicker Wil Lutz. He also created pressure on Clifford, resulting in Smith’s interception in the first half. Two preseason games in, it’s starting to look like George Payton hit a home run drafting Elliss in the third round last spring.
Stock Down
QB Jarrett Stidham: After Stidham watched Nix carve up Green Bay’s defense, the fifth-year veteran didn’t do much to help his case. Stidham recorded a 9-yard rushing touchdown but went 7 for 11 for 65 yards and an interception. If Stidham hadn’t already lost the starting job prior to Sunday night’s game, it’s obvious he has now.
OT Frank Crum: Crum struggled against the Packers’ defensive line during the opening drive of the third quarter. The undrafted rookie allowed a sack to Packers defensive end Brenton Cox Jr. Four plays later, Crum let defensive end Arron Mosby by him, creating pressure on Stidham that led to a tipped ball interception by linebacker Kristian Welch. In the fourth quarter with Wilson under center, Crum allowed another sack to defensive lineman Brevin Allen.
OL Will Sherman: Playing at right guard, Sherman had one of the worst moments from Denver’s beatdown on the Packers. Sherman, who spent last season on Denver’s practice squad, whiffed on a block, resulting in Wilson getting sacked in the end zone for a safety, ending the Broncos’ opportunity to secure a shutout.
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