The Denver Broncos head into the Saints showdown with a clean slate on several depth spots, turning each snap into a make-or-break audition. Key players to watch include Keidron Smith, Eyioma Uwazurike, Jaleel McLaughlin and Audric Estime, all fighting for spots behind the Denver starters. The defensive backs room is crowded, with Surtain II, Riley Moss, Ja’Quan McMillan, Jahdae Barron and Kris Abrams-Draine locks at corner, leaving a final DB spot up for grabs that Smith appears poised to win thanks to his versatility and special-teams impact.

Eyioma Uwazurike is stapled to rotational trenches, coming off a strong week where he logged significant defensive snaps. The last cut could come down to Uwazurike vs. Jordan Jackson for the final defensive-line roster spot, a decision that could shape depth on Payton’s front. On offense, Jaleel McLaughlin’s speed in outside-zone looks fits Denver’s scheme, giving him a real chance to carve out a third-down role or a change-of-pace carry behind Dobbins and Harvey in 2025. Estime remains a name to watch as roster decisions loom late in the preseason, with a few depth backs in the balance and potential special-teams value left on the line.

Bottom line: this game isn’t about stars so much as who sticks as a depth piece. The Saints present a stern test, and Denver’s ability to identify a few hidden gems could determine the roster and even hint at fantasy upside for a few players who could surge if given opportunities in relief roles. Broncos Country should be watching the reps closely for roster and fantasy signals alike.