The Denver Broncos defeated the Dallas Cowboys in their first preseason game of the year, Behind backup quarterbacks Josh Johnson and Brett Rypien. Final 7-17
Johnson threw for 16/23 for 172 yards and two touchdowns, While Brett Rypien had a less than average performance, completing 8/18 for 113 yards. Rypien had one stand out play where he hit Jalen Virgil down the sideline.
The pair are expected to battle for the backup quarterback position throughout the preseason. So far, the Journeyman Josh Johnson is the clear front-runner.
The 160th overall pick in the 2008 NFL Draft took command of the first half, leading all three scoring drives down the field. While starting QB, Russell Wilson isn't expected to suit up during the preseason. The two quarterbacks will have another chance to impress against the Buffalo Bills starters this weekend.
Head Nathaniel Hackett on Josh Johnson
"I thought he was really patient with his footwork, was able to get the ball out on time and the wide receivers were able to get just enough separation to get some catches, which I thought was great,"
And Brett Rypien
"That was awesome to '17' down the left side," Hackett said. "He kept battling back. He was put in some rough situations. Both guys were — and I thought they did a good job continually moving the chains."
Who will win the WR competition to replace injured Tim Patrick?
With star WR Tim Patrick going down with a season-ending injury, Denver has had multiple receivers who have stepped in to fill the void. Jalen Virgil led the night receiving with three receptions for 83 yards.
Kendall Hinton rose to the occasion securing three receptions for 53 yards and 1 TD. At the same time, Montrell Washington showed his versatility in the punt return game, with two returns for 45 yards.
Not to mention UDFA Brandon Johnson, who has been making plays all camp. He finished the night with four receptions for 64 yards. Two preseason games remaining, and the Broncos have multiple wide receivers with the potential to make the 53-man roster.
Head Coach Nathaniel Hackett on the WR competition.
"All those guys I thought did a fine job," Hackett said. "We were able to throw the ball down the field. We were able to do some precision routes with those guys too. Got a couple first downs. I thought they all did a really fine job. It's going to be great competition. Obviously Tim [Patrick's] the best, we all love Tim. When something like [an injury] happens, it creates opportunity and you love watching guys step up for that opportunity."
Defense
Defensively DC Ejiro Evero and the Broncos only allowed one play for more than 20 yards against the Cowboys. We all know injuries are a part of the game, but Denver lost a pivotal piece to their defense with Jonas Griffith going down. They have signed veteran LB Joe Schobert to fill the void. Luckily Randy Gregory and Billy Turner are coming off the PUP list and are set to return to practice.
STANDOUT PERFORMANCE
Baron Browning dominated in the first preseason game of 2022, racking up four tackles for a loss, three solo tackles, and one sack. He was drafted in the third round of the 2021 NFL draft with the 105th overall pick.
The second-year LB has made a name for himself moving from inside to outside linebacker. His athleticism, quickness, and technique to play with the first team. If appropriately utilized, Browning could play as much as any starter.
Head Coach Nathaniel Hackett on Browning
"I think y'all saw it," Hackett said. "He was around the quarterback quite a bit. Got a sack, a couple tackles, a pass breakup. His acceleration off the ball, ability to bend is really good to see. He came out and played free. I thought it was awesome to see. We'll evaluate him more, but he's doing a great job."
Baron Browning on his performance.
"It felt good, especially because in practice we can't sack the quarterback," Browning said. "So a lot of times it would be in question if it was a sack or not, so it was good to actually get a sack."