Broncos 53-man roster projection: Who grabs final spots at linebacker, tight end?

The Denver Broncos finished Friday’s preseason finale with a 34-6 win over the Minnesota Vikings, but most starters and key reserves sat, leaving roster decisions for next. Denver must submit an initial 53-man roster by 4 p.m. MT Sunday and also prepare a 16-man practice squad. Head coach Sean Payton and GM George Paton face injuries that could trigger short-term IR moves, plus disciplinary questions around starting outside linebacker Jonathon Cooper, who may be subject to an NFL suspension. The projection includes Bo Nix as QB2 with Jarrett Stidham as the other, and Sam Ehlinger as the likely method to keep a trusted third QB. At running back, the prediction favors keeping three top options, with Cody Schrader, J.K. Dobbins and RJ Harvey leading the group.