Dondrea Tillman Shines in Broncos’ Week 3 Victory: A Journey of Experience and Growth

**Experience Pays Off for Dondrea Tillman**

Dondrea Tillman’s journey to the Denver Broncos wasn’t a straight path, but every step mattered. After a full spring season with the Birmingham Stallions of the United Football League (UFL), Tillman brought with him valuable experience. This marked his third season with the Stallions, following two campaigns in the USFL and a recent stint in the UFL.

Tillman, a product of Indiana University of Pennsylvania, took an unconventional route to the NFL. Yet, the experience he gained along the way allowed him to develop and seize his opportunity.

“The more reps you get, the better you’re going to play,” Tillman said. “It doesn’t matter where you play, as long as you’re getting live reps. They add up over time. Playing in that league helped me grow and be ready for my chance when it came.”

On Sunday, his moment finally arrived, and the preparation paid off.

“Some guys come in without a lot of experience playing at a high level,” teammate Jonathon Cooper said. “But Dondrea has. He knew what to expect, and I couldn’t be prouder of him. We knew what kind of player he was, and that’s why he was active today. He’s only going to keep improving.”

Tillman played a crucial role in the Broncos’ impressive Week 3 performance.

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**Grading the Broncos’ Week 3 Performance**

**Passing Defense: A**

Tillman’s standout performance was part of a stellar effort from Denver’s defense. While Tillman thrived, Zach Allen also had an excellent game, leading all NFL interior defensive linemen with a top pressure rate on 35 pass-rush opportunities, according to Pro Football Focus.

**Rushing Defense: C+**

The run defense remains a concern. Tampa Bay’s Bucky Irving found gaps in the Broncos’ defense, and the Bucs’ running backs averaged 5.7 yards per carry, breaking several tackles along the way. Denver currently ranks 21st in the league in run defense, making it critical for the Broncos to maintain a lead, as they did on Sunday.

**Passing Offense: B+**

Bo Nix and the Broncos’ receivers were efficient, executing clean plays throughout the game. While they didn’t quite replicate the explosive start of the opening series, they methodically picked apart Tampa Bay’s defense. Nix’s decision-making was his best so far, and for the first time this season, Denver didn’t have any dropped passes.

**Rushing Offense: C+**

Tyler Badie’s late-game performance turned the tide on the ground for Denver. Before Badie’s 43-yard run in the fourth quarter, the Broncos’ running backs were averaging just 2.2 yards per carry. The question now is whether head coach Sean Payton will give Badie more opportunities. Javonte Williams, who fumbled in the second quarter, only touched the ball twice in the second half and has struggled recently.

**Special Teams: A**

Riley Dixon wasn’t called upon much, but he made the most of his opportunities, pinning Tampa Bay deep with a punt inside the 20-yard line and averaging 48 yards net on his two punts. Marvin Mims Jr. contributed a season-long 27-yard punt return, moving him into the NFL’s top 10 among punt returners this season. Kicker Wil Lutz was busy and flawless, delivering every time he was called upon.