The Denver Broncos had their first game action of the summer against the San Francisco 49ers and prevailed 30-9 on Saturday night. The Broncos scored 30 unanswered points after giving up nine in the first quarter. There were quite a few standouts from the victory. Let’s take a look at five winners and losers from the win.
Winner: 2025 draft class
Led by rookie running back RJ Harvey, who had seven carries for 25 yards, the Broncos’ 2025 draft class had a productive night. Cornerback Jahdae Barron made two solo tackles, wide receiver Pat Bryant had two catches for 21 yards, and he recovered a Jarrett Stidham fumble in the third quarter. Defensive lineman Sai’vion Jones had one pass deflection and a fumble recovery, outside linebacker Que Robinson had a tackle for loss, Jeremy Crawshaw had three punts for 111 yards, and tight end Caleb Lohner spent valuable time on the field, but did not get any catches.
Loser: Slow starts all around
The Broncos started slowly on offense and defense, with the first team defense allowing a touchdown on the first drive. The starting offense, led by Bo Nix, also had a difficult start, with a punt on their first drive, and Nix suffering an intentional grounding penalty resulting in a safety on the second drive. The rust is still being shaken off, but the first-team offense was eventually able to put points on the board with a field goal. The defense also attacked the quarterback, ending their day with an interception by Ja’Quan McMillian. While it is only preseason now, fast starts will be imperative in the regular season.
Winner: WR Courtney Jackson
Jackson began the game returning punts and kickoffs. Jackson replaced regular returner Marvin Mims and returned two punts for 31 yards and one kickoff for 28 yards. For good measure, Jackson caught two passes for nine yards, although he did fumble on his second catch (it was recovered by the offense).
Winner: QB Jarrett Stidham
Stidham relieved Bo Nix in the second quarter, immediately making an impact. Stidham led five drives, scoring on four of them. Stidham was the Broncos’ player of the game, going 14-of-15 passing for 136 yards and two touchdowns. Stidham also added 36 yards rushing, leeading the team.
Winner: Turnovers!
Besides the first drive, the Broncos’ defense played as advertised, not allowing any points to any quarterbacks for the 49ers. The defense forced five turnovers; three interceptions (Ja’Quan McMillian, Joshua Pickett, Karene Reid), one fumble (J.L. Skinner) and one turnover on downs. The defense looked great on all accounts, which will surely make it hard for coaches to make cuts in a few weeks.
The Broncos will next face the Arizona Cardinals on Aug. 16 at Empower Field at Mile High (preseason schedule).
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