Denver's 2026 preseason blueprint hinges on proximity and efficiency. Sean Payton favors non-division games that minimize travel, naming Arizona, San Francisco, the Rams, and Seattle as near-by targets to keep players rested and ready. He stressed that 2026 plans could loop back to the Cardinals after a productive joint practice, with talks already under way with Jonathan Gannon. Denver will wrap up 2025 on the road vs. New Orleans, a final cross-country hop that underscores the team’s travel-savvy approach.

In essence, the Broncos are leaning into a West Coast-friendly cadence: Cardinals, 49ers, Rams, Seahawks, with the Saints interlude marking the current slate. The strategy reflects a broader NFL trend toward optimizing preseason exposure while reducing fatigue, a move that could influence roster decisions and fantasy sleepers who benefit from crisp, efficient camp reps and manageable travel.