Denver Broncos Preview:
- Coming off a 10-7 season (first winning record since 2016, playoff Wild Card berth).
- Led by head coach Sean Payton and 2nd-year QB Bo Nix.
- Key signings: TE Evan Engram, WR Trent Sherfield, LB Dre Greenlaw, S Talanoa Hufanga.
- Drafted: CB Jahdae Barron, RB R.J. Harvey, WR Pat Bryant, DE Sai’vion Jones, Edge Que Robinson, P Jeremy Crawshaw.
- Defensive Player of the Year Patrick Surtain II anchors a unit that ranked 3rd in points allowed and led the NFL in sacks (2024).
- Most starters return; team hopes to build on last year’s momentum.
San Francisco 49ers Preview:
- Looking to rebound from a 6-11 season (missed playoffs, plagued by injuries).
- Major departures: WR Deebo Samuel (trade), LB Dre Greenlaw, S Talanoa Hufanga, CB Charvarius Ward, LG Aaron Banks (free agency).
- Key additions: S Richie Grant, WR Demarcus Robinson, QB Mac Jones (backup).Coaching changes: Robert Saleh returns as defensive coordinator; Klay Kubiak promoted to offensive coordinator.
- Core remains: LB Fred Warner, Edge Nick Bosa, QB Brock Purdy, RB Christian McCaffrey, TE George Kittle.
- Focus: Get healthy, stabilize defense, compete for playoffs again.
Matchup:
San Francisco 49ers (0-0) vs. Denver Broncos (0-0)
Time: August 9, 2025, 8:30 pm EDT
Line: 49ers +6.5 ; O/U: 3.5
Prediction:
- Motivation is uncertain for both teams in preseason.
- San Francisco will likely prioritize player health after last season’s injuries.
- Denver’s depth is stronger and their backups should see more meaningful playing time.
- Lean: Broncos to win and cover the spread.
