The Cardinals head to Denver for joint practices with the Broncos before their preseason game, concluding camp in Denver ahead of Saturday’s matchup at Empower Field.

As the NFL preseason progresses, teams are increasingly utilizing joint practices to simulate game-like conditions, evaluate their roster, and build chemistry. The Arizona Cardinals are set to head to Denver for a series of joint practices with the Denver Broncos, culminating in their preseason game at Empower Field on Saturday. This trip marks an important chapter in the Cardinals’ summer preparations, offering valuable opportunities for development, evaluation, and team cohesion.

The Significance of Joint Practices

Joint practices have become an integral part of NFL preseason routines. Unlike traditional practices confined within a single team’s facilities, these sessions facilitate live, competitive drills against an opposing team. They provide a controlled environment to test schemes, evaluate individual matchups, and identify areas for improvement without the full pressure of a regular-season game.

For the Cardinals, heading to Denver offers several strategic advantages. It allows coaching staffs to assess players in realistic, competitive scenarios against a different opponent, which can often reveal insights not apparent in isolated drills or scrimmages. Additionally, joint practices help players adapt to game-like conditions, sharpen their focus, and foster team chemistry—especially important for a roster that has seen significant roster turnover and scheme adjustments in recent months.

Context of the Cardinals’ Camp and Roster Outlook

Arizona’s training camp has been marked by a mix of optimism and evaluation. With a roster featuring a blend of established veterans, young prospects, and new additions, the coaching staff is meticulously assessing talent, chemistry, and scheme fit.

Key storylines include:

• Quarterback Competition: With Kyler Murray returning from injury, the team is monitoring his progress alongside backup quarterbacks such as Clayton Tune and Jarrett Stidham. The joint practices provide an excellent opportunity for these quarterbacks to face live pressure and for the staff to evaluate decision-making and consistency.
• New Additions and Depth: The Cardinals have incorporated several new players, including draft picks and free agents, into their system. Observing how these players perform against a different opponent helps determine who can contribute early in the season.
• Young Players and Development: Young prospects like receiver Michael Wilson, linebacker Zaven Collins, and cornerback Emmanuel Forbes are eager to showcase their skills. Live reps against Denver’s offense and defense are crucial for their growth.
• Team Cohesion and Scheme Integration: As the team continues to install new schemes and adjust to coaching staff philosophies, joint practices serve as a testing ground for cohesion and execution.

The Denver Broncos: A Respectable Test

The Broncos, under new head coach Sean Payton, present an interesting challenge for the Cardinals. With a revamped offense and a defense anchored by talented players like Patrick Surtain II and a developing pass rush, Denver offers a competitive environment to evaluate the Cardinals’ own roster.

Preseason matchups and joint practices against the Broncos will allow the Cardinals to simulate some aspects of regular-season play, including tackling, route running, pass protection, and situational football. These sessions are especially valuable for players fighting for roster spots, as standout performances can boost their chances of making the final 53-man roster.

The Practice Schedule and Expectations

Typically, joint practices span two to three days, with sessions focusing on specific aspects such as red zone work, team drills, and situational football. Coaches observe how players adapt to different schemes, how well the offense and defense execute under pressure, and whether players can maintain focus and discipline in a competitive environment.

For the Cardinals, these practices are also an opportunity to evaluate:

• Offensive Line Performance: How well the offensive line communicates and protects against Denver’s pass rush.
• Secondary and Coverage: How defensive backs communicate and handle different route concepts.
• Pass Rush and Pass Coverage: How effectively the defensive front pressures the quarterback and how well the secondary holds up in coverage.
• Special Teams: Live reps for returners, coverage units, and kickers.

Saturday’s Preseason Game at Empower Field

Following the joint practices, the Cardinals will face the Broncos at Empower Field, Denver’s home stadium. Preseason games often serve as the final tune-up before the regular season, giving players one last chance to impress coaches in a game setting.

In this matchup, starters may see limited action, with coaches focusing on evaluating backups and younger players. However, these games are critical for players vying for roster spots or trying to earn roles on special teams.

For fans and analysts, the game provides tangible insights into the team’s readiness, execution, and depth. Observing how players perform under game conditions helps coaches make informed decisions about roster cuts and starting roles.

The Broader Impact on the Season

The joint practices and preseason game in Denver are more than just routine activities—they are vital steps in the Cardinals’ path toward the 2023 NFL season. Success in these sessions can boost confidence, build chemistry, and identify areas needing improvement before the regular season begins.

Furthermore, these sessions often serve as a testing ground for new schemes, player roles, and positional battles. Emerging players may seize opportunities to secure a roster spot, while veterans aim to demonstrate consistency and leadership.

Expectations and Key Players to Watch

• Kyler Murray: Monitoring his command of the offense, decision-making, and mobility during practice reps will be crucial.
• Young Receivers and Tight Ends: Michael Wilson, Trey McBride, and other pass-catchers will look to build rapport with quarterbacks.
• Defensive Playmakers: Zaven Collins, Byron Murphy Jr., and newcomers like Marcus Davenport will be evaluated on pass rush and coverage.
• Special Teams: Players like Greg Dortch and Jadon Haselwood will aim to make an impact in return and coverage units.

The Road Ahead

After returning from Denver, the Cardinals will finalize their roster cuts, trimming down to the league-mandated 53 players. The experiences gained during joint practices and the preseason game will significantly inform these decisions.

The team’s goal is to enter the regular season with a roster that balances talent, depth, and scheme fit—ready to compete and adapt as the season unfolds.

In conclusion, the Arizona Cardinals’ trip to Denver for joint practices and their preseason game at Empower Field is a vital phase in their summer preparation. It offers a platform for evaluation, development, and team cohesion, setting the stage for a competitive and promising regular season. As players and coaches alike take the field in Denver, all eyes will be on how well they adapt, perform, and prepare for the challenges ahead.