Broncos rookie watch: Denver’s 2024 class flashed, but not enough to beat Chargers

A look at how the Broncos’ rookies played in their 34-27 loss to the Chargers on Thursday night.

Highlight: Kris Abrams-Draine was known for his ball skills at Missouri. That trait was on display in the second quarter when he read Justin Herbert’s pass perfectly and jumped in front of wide receiver Josh Palmer to secure his first career interception near the Broncos’ goal line. With Riley Moss sidelined due to a knee injury, Abrams-Draine has continued to show that the moment isn’t too big for him.

Lowlight: Bo Nix might’ve had a go-ahead touchdown pass in the fourth quarter if only he put a little less air under his throw. Down 27-24 with 10:51 to go in regulation, Marvin Mims Jr. was wide open deep down the field, but Nix underthrew the ball, resulting in an incompletion. The Broncos’ best chance to retake the lead fell through the cracks and they never recovered.

Analysis: Despite the loss, Thursday night was another reminder that Denver’s 2024 rookie class has a ton of upside. Nix threw two touchdowns, including one to rookie wide receiver Devaughn Vele. Audric Estime recorded his first career rushing touchdown, while undrafted free agent Blake Watson also flashed in the run game. No matter the outcome of the season, Denver’s group of rookies gives the franchise a ton of hope for the future.

Unsung Hero

WR Lil’Jordan Humphrey: Marvin Mims Jr.’s 53-yard reception on a bubble screen was one of the best plays of the evening. But Lil’Jordan Humphrey’s blocking effort shouldn’t go unnoticed. As Mims ran toward the sideline, Humphrey pushed a defender to allow the second-year wideout to sprint upfield for a big gain. Two plays later, Nix threw his second touchdown pass of the game.

Goat of the game

ILB Cody Barton: Denver’s starting inside linebacker stood out for all the wrong reasons in the first quarter. During the Chargers’ second drive, Barton had his ankles taken by 295-pound fullback Scott Matlock. Later, Barton failed to bring down Gus Edwards, resulting in a game-tying touchdown run for the running back.

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