DENVER – The Denver Broncos concluded their preseason with a decisive 38-12 victory over the Arizona Cardinals, securing an undefeated record heading into the regular season. The game featured impressive performances from quarterbacks Zach Wilson and Jarrett Stidham, both of whom made strong cases to remain on the roster after losing out to rookie Bo Nix in the starting quarterback competition.

Stidham got things started for the Broncos with a highly efficient drive, completing two of four passes for 28 yards before rookie running back Audric Estime punched it in from three yards out to cap the 10-play, 55-yard march. Stidham’s brief yet effective appearance was a testament to his readiness. “It was great,” Stidham said post-game. “I knew going into it if I went down and scored on the first drive I’d probably be done. So, I’m really proud of the guys.”

Wilson, who came on in relief, showcased his experience and playmaking ability, leading the Broncos on four scoring drives. He completed 16 of 25 passes for 251 yards, threw two touchdowns, and added a 1-yard rushing touchdown of his own. Wilson’s highlight of the night was a 46-yard touchdown pass to Brandon Johnson, which demonstrated his arm strength and precision under pressure. “I think getting hit in the face on that long scramble will help you get ready,” Wilson said, reflecting on a key 21-yard run that set up his first touchdown.

Broncos head coach Sean Payton was pleased with the performance of both quarterbacks, noting their contributions and the energy they brought to the team. “Both those guys looked good,” Payton said during his post-game press conference. “We feel comfortable with all three quarterbacks. I think I’ve told you already, I see the three of them making it.”

Payton was also quick to emphasize the importance of building a winning culture, even in the preseason. “I said it to them afterwards, you know, don’t ever get tired of how it feels to win,” Payton remarked. “Granted, we’re substituting groups and needing to get different guys evaluated, but we still want to win. The energy on the sidelines was encouraging.”

The Broncos’ defense played a pivotal role in the victory, with linebacker Lavelle Bailey returning an interception 96 yards for a touchdown, and defensive back Kedron Smith recovering a fumble at the Denver 3-yard line, marking his third takeaway of the preseason. Payton highlighted the defensive efforts, noting, “When you score on defense, you’re going to have some success. I think we had two takeaways. We protected the ball. Overall, I was pleased with how we finished this preseason.”

Injuries were a concern for both teams. Broncos defensive back Damarri Mathis injured his right ankle on the game’s second play and was carted off the field, although Payton later confirmed that initial imaging was positive, indicating no significant damage. Linebacker Durell Nchami also pulled a hamstring during the game. The Cardinals, meanwhile, saw cornerbacks Divaad Wilson, Elijah Jones, and Darren Hall, along with tight end Sage Surratt, leave the game due to various injuries.

As the Broncos prepare for the regular season opener on September 8th against the Seattle Seahawks, the final roster decisions loom large. “There’ll be a lot of discussion, debate, evaluation,” Payton said, alluding to the tough choices ahead. The next 48 hours will be critical as the team finalizes its 53-man roster.

With the preseason now in the rearview mirror, both teams will turn their attention to the regular season, where the stakes will be much higher, and the margin for error, significantly smaller. The Broncos, led by their trio of quarterbacks, appear ready to make a strong push, while the Cardinals will need to regroup quickly if they hope to compete in a tough NFC West division.