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It’s just preseason, but for bubble players fighting for a roster spot and a prime position on the depth chart it’s just as important as the real game. Broncos writer Cameron Wolfe gives his observations:
1. If the over-under on Broncos sacks is the 52 they notched last year, I’m going over. Even without top pass rushers Von Miller and DeMarcus Ware, the Broncos sacked Bears quarterbacks Jay Cutler, Brian Hoyer and David Fales seven times Thursday. Shane Ray, Shaquil Barrett, Jared Crick, Vontarrius Dora and Adam Gotsis terrorized Chicago’s offensive line.
2. Cody Latimer and Bennie Fowler look more explosive, confident and reliable. Latimer was the Broncos leading receiver with seven catches for 82 yards on eight targets. The Broncos have been waiting for him to arrive, this might be the time. Fowler had three catches, but his highlight play was a blocked punt that was returned for a touchdown.
3. A lot of these rookies look ready to play. In limited snaps, Devontae Booker showed off his hands and cutting ability that has the coaches raving about him. Will Parks flashed with a great open-field tackle. Justin Simmons showed his versatility playing deep and in the box. Gotsis and Dora got consistent penetration in the backfield.
4. The blocked kick at the end of the first half was bad and special teams coach Joe DeCamillis will let them hear about it. But it was an otherwise great special teams day — punt blocked for touchdown, great coverage units on punts and kickoffs, and both Kalif Raymond and Bralon Addison showed some shift moves in the return game. Andy Janovich and Kapri Bibbs both made great special teams tackles on kickoff.
5. Even without Chris Harris and Aqib Talib, the Broncos’ other defensive backs shined. T.J. Ward had a sack on a safety blitz. Lorenzo Doss had an interception and wrapped up open-field tackles on multiple occasions.
