PHX Reporter

Jonathan Gannon had his final opportunity to evaluate the back half of the Arizona Cardinals' roster on Sunday, as the team prepares for its initial 53-man roster. The Cardinals ended their preseason with a 38-12 loss to the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High, leaving them 0-3 in preseason play.

Gannon emphasized that while the game’s outcome was not crucial, player performance was. "I appreciate the effort," Gannon said. "Back to Arizona tonight. Time's ticking."

The Cardinals must finalize their roster by Tuesday. Gannon indicated that discussions regarding player cuts would begin during their flight home from Colorado.

Hints about roster decisions were evident during the game. Rookie tight end Tip Reiman and rookie outside linebacker Xavier Thomas did not play, suggesting they have secured their spots on the team.

Undrafted rookie wide receiver Xavier Weaver continued to impress with a couple of catches, including a 43-yard reception. Weaver's chances improved following Friday's announcement of Zay Jones' suspension.

"It was cool," said Weaver, who played at the University of Colorado last year. "I am blessed to be here in this moment."

The Cardinals faced more injuries than in any other preseason game. Quarterback Desmond Ridder entered concussion protocol after a late hit in the fourth quarter, and five other players—tackle Christian Jones (leg), cornerback Elijah Jones (ankle), safety Darren Hall (hip), running back Tony Jones Jr. (shoulder), and tight end Sage Surratt (ankle)—left with injuries.

Clayton Tune started as quarterback and played through most of the first half but returned after Ridder's injury. Tune threw a 94-yard pick-six on his first play back, marking the first turnover for either quarterback this preseason. Tune finished with 12-of-18 passes for 119 yards and one interception; Ridder completed 10-of-16 passes for 111 yards.

"I thought some good and some bad for both guys," Gannon commented. "You've got to protect the football."

Notable plays included Tune’s scramble leading to a 43-yard gain by Weaver, although it ended without a score due to Tony Jones Jr.'s fumble inside Denver’s 10-yard line. Newcomer OLB Chris Garrett made a tackle-for-loss as he aims to secure his spot past Tuesday’s cuts, while OLB Jesse Luketa recorded a key sack forcing Denver into a field goal attempt.

Several starters and backups were held out of Sunday’s game, including defensive linemen Dante Stills and L.J. Collier, along with running backs Trey Benson, Emari Demercado, and Michael Carter.

The Cardinals now turn their focus towards assembling their final roster ahead of Week 1 against Buffalo.