Broncos begin preseason against Falcons with multiple roster battles in focus
Denver will open its 2026 preseason in Atlanta, with quarterback Bo Nix sidelined and several position groups competing for roster spots.
The Denver Broncos will start their 2026 preseason on Thursday night in Atlanta, facing the Atlanta Falcons. Head coach Sean Payton confirmed that rookie quarterback Bo Nix, who is recovering from offseason ankle surgery, will not play in the opener but is expected to see action in the following two weeks. In his place, veterans Jarrett Stidham and Sam Ehlinger will each take a half of the game as they continue to vie for the backup quarterback role.
Payton said the two quarterbacks are "doing well" and that the rotation will give them valuable game experience. While the competition for the second-string spot remains informal, Stidham is currently the preferred backup, having been selected by Payton when he arrived in Denver.
The preseason matchup also provides a first look at the tight-end group, which saw limited activity in camp. Rookie tight end Justin Joly, a fifth-round pick, and seventh-round rookie Dallen Bentley are expected to receive snaps, along with veterans Nate Adkins and Lucas Krull, all seeking to improve the unit’s depth.
Defensively, the front seven will be under scrutiny as players such as defensive end Eyioma Uwazurike, Sai’vion Jones, rookie Tyler Onyedim and others compete for larger roles and roster spots. Edge rusher Que Robinson, who showed promise last season, is anticipated to receive significant playing time against the Falcons’ reserve line.
The linebacker corps also features a contest for reserve positions. Alex Singleton and Justin Strnad are locked in as starters, while Jordan Turner, Karene Reid, Levelle Bailey and rookie Red Murdock are among those trying to earn a place on the 53-man roster.
In addition to the primary storylines, several fringe players could emerge, including wide receiver Hakeem Butler, undrafted receiver Kolbe Katsis, edge rusher Johnny Walker, cornerback Brent Austin and safety Parker Robertson. The game will also mark the first on-field action for the Broncos’ 2026 rookie class, featuring players such as defensive tackle Tyler Onyedim, running back Jonah Coleman and offensive lineman Kage Casey.