The battle for the Denver Broncos' starting quarterback position is heating up as the team navigates the rigors of training camp. What started as a three-way competition is now intensifying, with Jarrett Stidham and rookie Bo Nix appearing to gain an edge over Zach Wilson.
Initially, the trio of Stidham, Nix, and Wilson were all vying for the coveted starting role. However, as camp progresses, the pecking order is becoming clearer. With Stidham and Nix showing promise, Wilson might find himself on the outside looking in.
Stidham's Opportunity
During Tuesday's practice, Jarrett Stidham was seen taking reps with the first-team offense—a significant indicator of trust from the coaching staff. This move is particularly noteworthy, as it was supposed to be Wilson's turn in the rotation. Stidham's experience within Sean Payton's offensive scheme provides him with a unique advantage, one that he seems to be capitalizing on effectively.
Stidham’s experience with the offense and familiarity with the system certainly play in his favor. Coach Sean Payton has kept his cards close to his chest, remarking only, "We'll see," when asked about the decision-making process for the quarterback spot. Still, the increased reps with the first-team offense signal a heightened level of trust in Stidham's capabilities.
Bo Nix Making a Case
Rookie Bo Nix, a first-round pick, has also been making a compelling case for himself. Nix had his shot with the starting unit on Monday and made the most of it. The young quarterback has been showing signs of the talent that made him a top pick, and his potential is clearly being noticed by the coaching staff.
Nix’s youth and first-round pedigree make him a tantalizing prospect for the Broncos. While he may lack the immediate familiarity with the team's system that Stidham possesses, his natural talent and ability to quickly adapt could make him a front-runner as the preseason progresses.
Wilson's Uphill Battle
Zach Wilson, who was acquired from the New York Jets this offseason, has not had an easy journey. With a record of 12 wins and 21 losses over three seasons in New York, his performance has been inconsistent at best. In 2022, Wilson managed a 5-4 streak as the Jets' starter, but any momentum was lost with last year's 4-7 record following Aaron Rodgers' season-ending Achilles injury in Week 1.
Wilson is noted as the most athletic of the three quarterbacks competing for the start. However, unlike Nix, he isn’t a first-round pick anymore, and he doesn’t possess the ingrained experience with Denver's offensive scheme that Stidham enjoys. Despite being just 24 years old, Wilson is facing significant challenges as he tries to cement his place within the team.
With Stidham showing improved trust and performance, and Nix demonstrating why he was a first-round choice, Wilson will need to leverage his athleticism and any residual potential to keep his hopes alive.
What's Next?
The upcoming preseason games will serve as a critical proving ground for Stidham, Nix, and Wilson. These matchups will offer each quarterback the stage to demonstrate their abilities in a live-game setting, an invaluable opportunity to influence Coach Payton and the rest of the coaching staff's decision.
The Broncos are nearing the final stages of solidifying their roster, making each practice and game essential for these quarterbacks. As the tension mounts and the stakes grow higher, the clarity on who will lead the Broncos' offense into the regular season will soon sharpen.
For now, Denver fans and players alike wait with bated breath, knowing that the decision will shape the team's trajectory for the season. Whether it’s Stidham’s experience, Nix’s potential, or Wilson’s athleticism, the Broncos are ensuring that they explore all options to bring the best to Mile High.