Jameis Winston #2 of the New Orleans Saints
Denver Broncos Could Target Jameis Winston as Backup to Bo Nix
Unlike last offseason, there is no debate over who will be the Denver Broncos’ starting quarterback in 2025. Selecting Bo Nix in the first round of the NFL Draft cemented him as the face of the franchise. However, the depth behind Nix remains a question mark, and veteran quarterback Jameis Winston could be a viable solution.
A Veteran Presence Behind Nix?
Winston, the former No. 1 overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, spent the 2024 season with the Cleveland Browns on a one-year, $4 million deal. As free agency approaches, CBS Sports’ Cody Benjamin has linked Winston to the Broncos, predicting that Denver could add the experienced signal-caller to its roster.
“The colorful gunslinger has a history with coach Sean Payton, once serving as Drew Brees’ backup in New Orleans, and could give Denver a much-beloved new backup for the young Bo Nix,” Benjamin wrote on January 28.
While Winston’s time in Cleveland was brief, he completed 61.1% of his passes for 2,121 yards, 13 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. The 31-year-old has thrown for over 22,000 career yards and 143 touchdowns but has struggled with turnovers, posting a 19:20 touchdown-to-interception ratio over the last three seasons.
Despite that inconsistency, Winston’s familiarity with Payton’s system and his ability to step in as a capable veteran could make him an attractive target for Denver.
Winston & Payton’s Mutual Respect
Winston’s connection with Payton dates back to 2020, when he joined the New Orleans Saints and spent two seasons learning under the veteran head coach. The two have exchanged praise over the years, with Winston speaking highly of Payton’s leadership.
“I would say his aura, right? His essence. Him being authentically himself, and I think that won me over so much,” Winston said in November 2024. “What Sean possessed was a leadership quality that was so important to our team at the New Orleans Saints. … He was one of the best leaders I’ve been around.”
Payton also had positive things to say about Winston, emphasizing his infectious personality and leadership qualities.
“He’s big, he’s tremendous in the locker room, he’s got this infectious personality,” Payton said in November 2024. “You hear him before you see him, that type of guy. I really enjoyed coaching him and having a chance to work with him. He’s the ultimate pro.”
A Logical Fit for the Broncos
With Jarrett Stidham and Zach Wilson both set to hit free agency, the Broncos have a void at backup quarterback. Winston’s experience, leadership, and past relationship with Payton could make him an ideal candidate for the role.
Over The Cap projects Denver to have $34.7 million in cap space, and Winston’s projected market value sits at around $9 million per year—just under what Stidham and Wilson combined to make in 2024.
For the Broncos, securing a veteran backup like Winston could provide insurance for Nix’s development while ensuring stability in the quarterback room. If Denver wants a proven presence behind its rookie, Winston could be the perfect fit.
