Bo Nix throws touchdown in return from injury after 216 days3 sources

Bo Nix returned to the field after 216 days, making his first preseason appearance for the Denver Broncos against the Green Bay Packers. The quarterback, who underwent two offseason surgeries to repair a fractured right ankle, played 14 snaps. He completed 6-of-9 passes for 76 yards and a touchdown. Yahoo Sports reported that Nix “looked real good” in the preseason matchup. This marks his first game action since August 2025. The performance signals a successful recovery from the injury that sidelined him during the playoffs. His return provides immediate depth and stability for Denver’s offense as the regular season approaches.

Vita Vea signs $30M extension with Buccaneers, ending hold-in and trade request standoff

Vita Vea agreed to a $30M extension with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, ending a contentious stretch that included a hold-in, a trade request, and public doubt that he would remain in Tampa. Vea’s stance created friction and made his future with the franchise a prolonged distraction. The deal secures Tampa’s key defensive lineman heading into the regular season.

Sean Payton criticizes team performance after contest2 sources

The Denver Broncos suffered a 33-13 defeat to the Green Bay Packers in their preseason home opener. Head coach Sean Payton openly criticized the team’s performance, stating, ‘That wasn’t good enough.’ The Packers dominated the matchup, effectively throttling the Broncos in front of the home crowd. The loss highlights immediate areas needing improvement before the regular season begins.

Packers release McManus and Havrisik, leaving rookie Trey Smack as sole kicker2 sources

Green Bay eliminated competition by releasing veterans Brandon McManus and Lucas Havrisik, leaving Trey Smack as the sole kicker on the roster. The decision appears sound based on recent performance. Smack converted four field goals in two games, including a 59-yarder on Friday night and a 58-yarder last week. He also made three kicks in the earlier contest. The Packers drafted the sixth-round pick earlier this year, a move that now secures his role without internal rivalry. This roster move solidifies the special teams unit, removing ambiguity regarding the kicking position. Smack’s accuracy under pressure validates the team’s confidence in his ability to handle high-stakes situations throughout the upcoming season.

Jordan Love throws touchdown pass in one series for Packers2 sources

Jordan Love completed five of seven passes for 56 yards and a touchdown in one series for the Green Bay Packers in Denver. Head coach Matt LaFleur ended the 12-play, 63-yard drive after Love threw an 11-yard touchdown to MarShawn Lloyd on third down. LaFleur’s plan was to play the starting offense more than one drive, but he saw all he needed to see. The coach likely will not deploy Love again until the season opener.

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