2024-08-26 14:10:02
Justin Tafoya/Getty Images
Zach Wilson made a strong case to become the Denver Broncos’ No. 2 quarterback during a 38-12 victory over the Arizona Cardinals in the team’s preseason finale on Sunday.
Wilson finished 16-of-25 for 251 yards and two touchdown passes without throwing an interception. He also added a third score on the ground.
Rookie signal-caller Bo Nix did not participate in the contest after he secured the starting job on Wednesday.
Jarrett Stidham opened up Sunday’s game under center for Denver before Wilson entered near the end of the first quarter. Stidham completed two of his four pass attempts for 28 yards in limited action.
Wilson wasn’t flawless, as he dealt with some of the inaccuracy that plagued him throughout his tenure with the New York Jets. Still, the former No. 2 overall pick in the 2021 draft was able to extend drives for the Broncos through the air and on the ground. This included a 21-yard scramble near the start of the second quarter.
He also found wide receiver Brandon Johnson for a 46-yard touchdown with just over six minutes remaining in the fourth quarter.
Fans were impressed with his performance.
Chase Daniel @ChaseDaniel
Zach Wilson is absolutely balling. He’s earned a #2 job somewhere.
16/25 251 yards 2 TD’s and 22 yds rushing
pic.twitter.com/hSXTv6FAsG
StatMuse Football @statmusefb
Zach Wilson at the half:
8/11
93 YDS
1 TD
Broncos are eyeing a 3-0 record as they post a shutout at home. pic.twitter.com/0vlUqIV6LU
Casey Lundquist @casey_lundquist
Man it’s fun to see Zach Wilson play with some confidence again https://t.co/h5Pd3bo6wp
Although Nix is already entrenched as the Broncos’ Week 1 starter, Wilson gave himself a chance to move up the depth chart against Arizona after working with Denver’s third-string offense throughout the last “several weeks” of training camp (via Aric DiLalla of the team’s official website).
The Broncos finished their preseason action with a 3-0 record.
