Full Breakdown
Broncos Seek Roster Spots in 34-6 Preseason Win Over Vikings
8/29/2026, 11:52:12 AM
Game Summary
In the final preseason contest, Denver defeated Minnesota 34–6. The Broncos posted the last 21 points of the game, while the Vikings managed only a single field goal. The victory gave fringe players a platform to impress before the league-mandated roster deadline.
Player Performances and Statistics
- Sam Ehlinger – completed 15 of 20 passes for 233 yards, three touchdowns and a passer rating of 131.9. He also engineered a 65-yard drive on fourth down, finishing with a 14-yard touchdown to Cody Schrader, who led the team with 132 scrimmage yards.
- Carson Wentz – went 3-for-4 for 15 yards, rating 80.2.
- Max Brosmer – recorded 20-of-35 passing for 166 yards, rating 69.5.
- Jaleel McLaughlin – caught a 20-yard touchdown on the Vikings’ side of the ball.
The Broncos’ defense limited Minnesota to a single 28-yard field goal.
Roster Implications and Upcoming Cuts
Head coach Sean Payton emphasized that the game was a “final evaluation” for players on the bubble. The Broncos must reduce the roster to 53 players by Sunday at 4 p.m. Mountain Time, with the practice squad to be formed the following week. Payton indicated the staff will focus on “who’s making it” rather than “who maybe isn’t,” underscoring the high stakes for reserves.
Official Statements & Responses
He also highlighted the importance of evaluating players in live-game situations, contrasting it with practice drills that can’t replicate game pressure.
Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell confirmed that quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who suffered an ankle injury against the Baltimore Ravens, was unavailable for the game. O’Connell said the injury is not considered long-term, and the team will decide whether to keep McCarthy on the active roster, place him on short-term IR, or consider other options as the 53-man deadline approaches.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
All sources agree that McCarthy’s ankle injury is “not a long-term issue,” but they differ on the potential roster outcome. Some outlets suggest the Vikings may retain him as a backup, while others note the possibility of releasing or trading him if the team opts to carry only two quarterbacks. No definitive decision has been reported.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I don't watch a lot of TV,” — Sean Payton, head coach
- “This game has had its moments,” — Sean Payton, head coach
- “Remember, it's the right 53 and getting the proper evaluation,” — Sean Payton, head coach
- “It’s hard to go into this game and just say, ‘Hey, these 40 aren’t (playing),’” — Sean Payton, head coach
- “He’s smart, he’s sudden, he’s big,” — Sean Payton, head coach
