<p>Wattenberg anchors Denver’s center position and delivered his first clean pass-protection outing of 2025 in Week 5. His improvement complemented Denver's No. 1 OL status, supporting Bolles' standout run blocking and giving the unit a reliable middle that helps protect the quarterback and spark play-action opportunities.</p>

Wattenberg delivered his best game of the season, stepping up at center and handling all 74 snaps with improved performance, though the overall room remains a work in progress.

Wattenberg, the Broncos’ center, posted a 56.4 grade in Week 4, ranking 27th among centers. While not a top-graded star, his role as a steady interior presence supports Denver’s pass protection and run schemes.

Wattenberg landed five penalties in the game, a disqualifying figure that undermined a strong team performance. His rough showing at center highlighted the ongoing need to clean up costly penalties, despite the overall positive game flow for the Broncos.

Wattenberg has regressed in pass protection this season, with interior stunts and complex pressures troubling him. The Broncos need a rebound game from their center to stabilize protection, enable the heavy zone rushing scheme, and allow Nix time to exploit Bengals’ interior DTs. A cleaner game from Wattenberg could unlock Denver’s early-down efficiency and set up play-action opportunities.