“Evaluating the Denver Broncos’ Free Agent: QB Jarrett Stidham”
Broncos Face Key Decision: Re-sign Jarrett Stidham or Move On?
When Sean Payton took over as head coach of the Denver Broncos, one of his first moves was signing veteran quarterback Jarrett Stidham to a two-year, $10 million deal. Stidham was brought in as Russell Wilson’s backup, but Payton believed he had the potential to develop into a starting-caliber quarterback in the NFL.
Stidham got his chance late in the 2023 season, starting the Broncos’ final two games. While his performance was solid, it wasn’t enough to prevent the team from pursuing a long-term solution at quarterback.
In the 2024 NFL Draft, the Broncos selected Oregon standout Bo Nix with the 12th overall pick. Despite this investment, Stidham remained in the mix, taking first-team reps during training camp and starting off as the leader of the quarterback group. Ultimately, Nix claimed the starting role and went on to have a breakout rookie season, while Stidham served as his backup throughout the Broncos’ 18-game campaign.
Now, Stidham enters the offseason as a pending free agent, and the Broncos must decide: Should they bring him back to back up Nix, or explore other options?
The Case for Re-signing Jarrett Stidham
Stidham’s connection with Sean Payton is a key factor. Payton hand-picked him as insurance for Russell Wilson and consistently praised him throughout the season. Stidham showed enough promise during training camp and preseason to push Nix for the starting job, and he remains a reliable veteran presence who knows the offense well.
While Stidham may not be a top-tier backup, he’s proven capable in limited action. Payton’s trust in him is evident, and that trust could be vital if Nix were to miss time.
Additionally, Stidham has built strong relationships with Nix and third-string quarterback Zach Wilson. Nix spoke highly of the camaraderie in the quarterback room, crediting Stidham and Wilson for their support during his rookie season. Maintaining that bond could contribute to the winning culture Payton is trying to establish in Denver.
The Case Against Re-signing Stidham
While Stidham seems like a natural fit to return, the Broncos may opt to elevate Zach Wilson as their backup instead. Wilson, who was acquired before the draft, spent the 2024 season as the team’s third-string quarterback. Though he didn’t challenge Stidham for the No. 2 spot, Wilson’s upside and athleticism make him an intriguing option moving forward.
A former No. 2 overall pick, Wilson offers more potential than Stidham. With his elite arm talent and athleticism, he could serve as a developmental project for Payton and quarterbacks coach Davis Webb. If he develops further, Wilson might even become a valuable trade asset.
If the Broncos believe in Wilson’s potential, they could let Stidham walk in free agency and focus on grooming Wilson as Nix’s backup. However, it’s unlikely the team would move on from both players, as they’d likely prefer continuity in the quarterback room.
Final Thoughts
Given Sean Payton’s trust in Stidham and his proven reliability, the Broncos may prioritize re-signing him. He provides a steady veteran presence for Bo Nix as the young quarterback prepares for his first full offseason in the NFL.
However, Zach Wilson remains the wildcard. His higher ceiling could make him an appealing option if he impressed the coaching staff this season. That said, Wilson might attract more attention in free agency, which could increase the likelihood of Stidham staying in Denver.
In the end, Stidham seems to have a slight edge, but the Broncos’ decision will ultimately depend on their assessment of Wilson’s development and market value.
What do you think, Broncos Country? Should the team re-sign Stidham, or is it time to look elsewhere for a backup quarterback?
