In a rare scheduling twist, the NFL has officially adjusted the kickoff time for this Sunday’s matchup between the Denver Broncos and the New York Giants at Empower Field at Mile High, citing the Charlie Kirk Memorial Event set to take place at the stadium earlier in the day.
According to league sources, the decision came after discussions between the Broncos organization, city officials, and the NFL’s operations department to ensure smooth logistics and fan safety. Originally set for a 2:25 p.m. MT kickoff, the game will now begin at 6:05 p.m. MT, giving stadium crews enough time to manage traffic, clean-up operations, and security transitions between events.
While scheduling conflicts like this are unusual in the NFL, the Broncos have handled the adjustment with professionalism and focus. Head Coach Sean Payton told reporters that the time change won’t disrupt the team’s preparation.
“We play when they tell us to play,” Payton said. “Our mindset doesn’t change — whether it’s day or night, we’ll be ready to bring that Mile High energy.”
Broncos players echoed that sentiment throughout the week. Quarterback Bo Nix, who continues to impress in his rookie season, noted that the evening atmosphere could actually amplify Denver’s home-field advantage.
“There’s something special about night games in Denver,” Nix said. “You feel the energy in the air. Every snap, every drive, every roar — it’s electric.”
The Charlie Kirk Memorial Event, organized to honor community service and youth leadership, is expected to draw tens of thousands of attendees to Empower Field earlier that day. Local authorities are advising fans to plan their travel carefully and arrive early to avoid congestion.
For the Broncos, Sunday’s matchup against the Giants carries more than just scheduling drama — it’s a crucial moment in their quest to climb the AFC West standings. Sitting at 3–2, Denver is looking to build momentum after last week’s gritty road win, while the Giants (2–3) are desperate to snap a two-game losing streak.
Analysts predict a defensive slugfest, with Denver’s improving pass rush facing off against the Giants’ struggling offensive line. Linebacker Baron Browning emphasized the team’s urgency heading into the game:
“We know what’s at stake. Every possession matters. Every tackle matters. We’re coming out swinging.”
Fans are equally energized. With the kickoff now set for Sunday evening, the Mile High crowd is expected to deliver one of the loudest atmospheres of the season under the lights. “Night football in Denver hits different,” one fan posted on X. “The crowd’s louder, the lights are brighter, and the Broncos always seem to rise to the moment.”
Despite the adjustment, the Broncos remain focused on their ultimate goal — reclaiming playoff contention and restoring the franchise’s proud tradition of resilience and grit. As the team’s social media post declared:
“The Broncos are charging full speed ahead! Every snap, every drive, every roar from the Mile High crowd fuels Denver’s fight for glory.”
Kickoff is officially set for 6:05 p.m. MT at Empower Field. Fans can check the updated schedule, injury report, and broadcast details on the Broncos’ official website and NFL channels.
