Key Insights: What We Learned from the Cardinals’ Preseason Loss to the Broncos

The Arizona Cardinals faced a tough loss against the Denver Broncos in their recent preseason game, finishing 27-7. Yet, for many players fighting for a place on the team, this game was an opportunity to shine.

One standout was rookie safety Kitan Crawford. The seventh-round pick showed promise with six tackles and an interception in his last outing against the Kansas City Chiefs. This consistency on the field raises his chances of securing a spot on the 53-man roster, especially against competitor Joey Blount. Blount has experience, but his hold on a roster spot could be slipping as Crawford continues to impress.

Head coach Jonathan Gannon emphasizes the importance of games over practices. “Game reps are the best way to learn,” he said. This belief highlights the pressure on players to perform during games.

Another player looking to make an impact is wide receiver Simi Fehoko. Returning from an injury, he caught two passes, including a 16-yard touchdown. His energy and performance on special teams add to his case for a roster spot, especially in a competitive receiver room against Tejhaun Palmer, who struggled with dropped passes.

Rookies Will Johnson and Denzel Burke also had their moments in the game. Johnson, a key linebacker, made solid plays but needs to work on maintaining discipline in games, as he has faced penalties this preseason. Burke showed quicker play and success with pass breakups, suggesting he’s adapting well.

On the quarterback front, Jacoby Brissett continues to solidify his role as QB2. His impressive performance—completing six of eight passes for 57 yards—showcases his grasp of the team’s offense. Meanwhile, Clayton Tune may be at risk of not making the final roster due to strong depth in other positions, potentially landing on the practice squad instead.

Lastly, Hayden Conner, a promising center, was sidelined with a knee injury early in the game. This setback raises concerns about depth in a position that requires stability.

The Cardinals are at a crucial juncture with their roster as the preseason winds down. Players and coaches alike are feeling the pressure as they aim for success in the upcoming regular season.

In recent trends, teams often rely on data from past games to inform their decisions. According to a survey by the NFL Coaches Association, 78% of coaches believe game performance is a clearer indicator of potential than practice drills. This could shape how the Cardinals approach final roster selection and their game strategies moving forward.

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