Game grades have returned! We’ve closely reviewed the footage to evaluate nearly every Denver Bronco who took the field in the preseason opener against the Indianapolis Colts.
As you might expect with the Broncos securing a 34-30 win, the grades are generally favorable. Since it’s a new season, here’s a quick reminder of how we grade:
Players are evaluated based on the opportunities they have. Results are prioritized over the process. For instance, if a player is on the field for one play and causes a turnover, that could result in an A+. This means that a small sample size can sometimes lead to extreme grades.
Typically, a B- or C+ is considered an average grade. A B indicates above-average performance, while a C denotes below average. Achieving an A+ or an F is quite rare.
Defensive Linemen:
DJ Jones (B-): Although DJ Jones didn’t make it onto the stat sheet, he held his own, collapsing an early run for a short gain.
Malcolm Roach (A): Roach made an impact in his debut for the Broncos, with several standout plays including a diving tackle and stuffing a run for a loss.
Jordan Jackson (B+): Jackson had a solid performance, highlighted by a tackle for loss and effective containment of a quarterback scramble.
Angelo Blackson (C): Blackson had a quiet day, playing mainly on passing downs, where his impact was minimal.
Matt Henningsen (A): Henningsen made key contributions, including recovering a fumble and showing strength near the goal line.
Elijah Garcia (B-): Garcia had a strong showing in the run game, particularly deep in the red zone.
Outside Linebackers:
Baron Browning (B-): Browning’s main highlight was a spin move, but the quick release of the pass minimized its impact.
Jonathon Cooper (B+): Cooper’s performance was strong, with a standout play in run defense.
Jonah Elliss (A+): Elliss excelled with a sack and crucial pressure that led to an interception.
Inside Linebackers:
Alex Singleton (A+): Singleton was all over the field, making several critical plays including a blitz that forced an incompletion and leading the Broncos in tackles.
Cody Barton (C): Barton had a mixed performance, making some plays but missing others.
Jonas Griffith (D+): Griffith struggled in coverage, giving up a big play.
Safeties:
PJ Locke (C): Locke had a tackle for loss but also allowed a significant gain.
Devon Key (B-): Key’s quiet performance was solid for a safety, with no major mistakes.
JL Skinner (C): Skinner allowed a few catches but contributed to a third-down stop.
Cornerbacks:
Riley Moss (B): Moss had some ups and downs in coverage but showed promise.
Ja’Quan McMillian (B+): McMillian made a savvy play that disrupted a pass and was strong in run defense.
Tremon Smith (D+): Smith struggled at cornerback, giving up a big play but contributed on special teams.
Special Teams:
Wil Lutz (A): Lutz was perfect on field goals and extra points.
Riley Dixon (B+): Dixon delivered well-placed punts, averaging 48.5 yards.