Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton recently acknowledged that under Bo Nix, his team has recovered from the broken ankle that kept them out of the AFC Conference Championship. Nix’s injury provides the perfect excuse for Coach Payton to create more competition for the backup QB job in Denver after Jarrett Stidham completed only 54.8% of his passes for 133 yards, a TD and an INT in the team’s playoff loss.
The only other QB on the Broncos’ roster is Sam Ehlinger. But the 2021 sixth-round pick hasn’t thrown an NFL pass with the Colts since 2022. So, if the Broncos want more capable competition behind Nix to help establish their offense, who could Peyton go to coach? Here are four possible solutions.
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jimmy garoppolo
Still unsigned and reportedly considering retirement at the age of 34, Garoppolo has been tasked with backing up 2025 NFL MVP Matthew Stafford for the past two seasons. Like the Knicks, Jimmy G does not have a very strong arm, and his top priority is keeping the ball out of harm’s way. He is also a proven winner, having led his team to two Super Bowl appearances. Until the Knicks get back to 100% in Denver, he feels like an ideal bridge QB.
Will Lewis
After the Titans selected Cam Ward No. 1 overall, Lewis will still be only 27 when the season starts. He was sidelined with a shoulder injury last season, but is now back at 100% and likely yearns for a change of scenery. Learning from Coach Payton could provide a springboard for the former second-rounder’s career, and the Titans would likely be willing to trade him as a backup to Mitchell Trubisky.
Anthony Richardson
Would the Broncos be willing to take a low-risk gamble on a highly talented prospect with injury concerns? Richardson is by far the most talented QB available, but the Broncos will have to find fair trade compensation for the former No. 4 overall pick. Still, having a high-potential developmental prospect on hand would be a fun project for the Broncos.
Russell Wilson
Will he really come back? It depends on how desperate Wilson is for another NFL opportunity. He is said to be considering TV job offers and even a contract from the Jets. Still, if Wilson wants a chance to join another Super Bowl contender, he may view the Broncos as a job too good to turn down. He’ll certainly bring a competitive spirit to practice until the Knicks rally the troops.
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