6 Broncos players who need a strong performance vs. Packers

The Denver Broncos are set to face the Green Bay Packers in their second preseason game on Friday night, held at Empower Field. With the preseason nearing its end, several players are in the final stages of securing their spots on the 53-man roster. Here are six Broncos players who need to step up against their opponents:

1. Sam Ehlinger, QB: The Broncos have been competing for the backup quarterback position between Jarrett Stidham and Sam Ehlinger this summer. Stidham's poor performance in last year's AFC Championship game has led many Broncos fans to believe Ehlinger could secure the role. However, after last week's win against the Atlanta Falcons, Stidham seems unlikely to be replaced. Ehlinger must play a strong, error-free game against the Packers on Friday to maintain his chances.

2. Hakeem Butler, WR: The Broncos may end up keeping only five wide receivers on the final roster due to the depth they have with the current group. Hakeem Butler, who has been quiet lately, could be the key to changing that opinion. Butler's height gives him an advantage, and he needs to make an impact against the Packers on Friday.

3. Nate Adkins, TE: As one of the Broncos' tight ends, Nate Adkins needs to perform well to avoid being cut. Engram, Trautman, and Joly are likely to be kept on the roster, but Adkins offers significant upside as a blocker and would be a tough cut. He must demonstrate his value to the team during the upcoming game.

4. Jordan Turner, LB: With Levelle Bailey's season-ending broken leg, Jordan Turner is one of the remaining contenders for the inside linebacker position behind Alex Singleton and Justin Strnad. Turner could make the final roster alongside seventh-round pick Red Murdock, but he needs to outperform teammates like Karene Reid and Taurean York to secure his spot.

5. Drew Sanders, OLB: Drew Sanders registered a sack last week, but he is still on the outer edges of the roster bubble. While his performance might not guarantee his continued role with the Broncos, playing well could increase his trade value and improve his chances of staying with the team. A strong showing against the Packers could make a difference.

6. JL Skinner, S: The Broncos signed veteran safety Taylor Rapp on Thursday, indicating that the team is not entirely confident in their linebacker depth. JL Skinner, who has been with the team since the 2023 NFL draft, hasn't been much of a defensive presence thus far. The Broncos likely trust Devon Key as a special teams safety and seventh-round pick Miles Scott could be prioritized over Skinner in the final roster decisions. A standout defensive play against the Packers would be crucial for Skinner's future with the team.