PFF releases grades from Broncos’ second preseason game

Tim Patrick (89.0 on offense) and Andre Smith (95.4 on defense) were the Broncos’ highest-graded players in Week 2 of NFL preseason.

The Denver Broncos dominated the Green Bay Packers 27-2 in their second preseason game of the summer on Sunday night. Pro Football Focus released their player grades from that victory on Monday.

On offense, quarterback Bo Nix had the best overall grade among quarterbacks (85.8) and the best passing grade (89.8). Aiding by a rushing touchdown, Jarrett Stidham had a better running grade (63.3) than Nix (59.4) but a worse passing grade (59.3). Zach Wilson wasn’t able to make much of an impact with cleanup duties (45.7 overall).

Nix was PFF’s highest-graded rookie quarterback of the week.

At running back, Tyler Badie had a short sample size (one carry and one catch), but his touchdown helped him secure the best grade (77.6) among Denver’s RBs. Up next was Javonte Williams (66.4). Audric Estime (79.9) was given the best pass-blocking grade, which is not surprising:

Tim Patrick (89.0) was the team’s best wide receiver on the night and the best offensive player overall.

On defense, linebackers Andre Smith (95.4) and Justin Strnad (91.5) posted the best overall grades, followed by safety Keidron Smith (91.1). Not far behind were pass rushers Nik Bonitto (89.6) and Jonah Elliss (85.9).

Elliss posted another sack and a hurry that led to another interception, just as he did in Denver’s preseason opener last week. He was PFF’s highest-graded rookie edge defender in Week 2.

The team’s lowest-graded defender was pass rusher Thomas Incoom (35.4).

On special teams, punter Riley Dixon was given a slight edge (60.0) over Trenton Gill (59.3). One of Gill’s three punts was shanked, but he made up for it later in the game with a 62-yard boot. The punter competition might go down to the wire.

You can view more grades on the paid version of PFF’s website.

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