Broncos backup quarterback position is not set in stone for 2026 season

The Denver Broncos have one of the more stable quarterback rooms in the NFL entering the 2026 season, as soon as Bo Nix returns to full health after rehabbing the broken ankle that ended his season last year. 

But with two capable backup quarterbacks on the roster, the Broncos may have the option to consider moving one of them this offseason. According to this tweet from Dianna Russini of The Athletic, that is something other teams are considering as well.

While teams are checking in on potentially trading for Jarrett Stidham, Sean Payton stated earlier this week that Stidham will compete with Sam Ehlinger for the No. 2 job this summer.  

That is interesting and it may just be Payton saying what he needs to say to the media, but he was very vocal about hos confidence in Stidham ahead of the AFC Championship Game, a 10-7 loss to the New England Patriots. A large portion of fans within Broncos Country put that loss directly on the shoulders of Stidham. 

Could Sam Ehlinger beat out Jarrett Stidham for Broncos' backup job?

Meanwhile, Ehlinger has been a player the Broncos really like, despite being No. 3 on the depth chart. Ehlinger is also quite comfortable in his role, as he has demonstrated surprising loyalty to the organization. 

Why didn't Sean Payton endorse Jarrett Stidham as his backup QB today when he had the chance? | Freshly Grated with @PetersenWill and @celloromano pic.twitter.com/TnJ4sMTbpE

Stidham seems to be the more complete player and would have an advantage over Ehlinger in terms of real-game experience running Payton's offense. But Ehlinger's ability to create once things break down and use his legs to make plays would make it an interesting competition. 

With that said, there are also several teams with unsettled situations at the quarterback position who could offer the Broncos a draft pick in exchange for the veteran Stidham. The New York Jets, Cleveland Browns, Green Bay Packers and Los Angeles Rams are all teams that could consider upgrading their backup spot. 

HOT READ: Sean Payton's former team upended Broncos' initial free agency plan

This will be an interesting storyline to follow as the offseason progresses, but don't be surprised if the Broncos have a new backup to Nix in 2026, one way or the other.

More Broncos Content

Sean Payton discusses difficult decision for Broncos to release Dre Greenlaw

Aaron Rodgers has "zero percent" chance of coming to Broncos despite wild rumor

J.K. Dobbins receives major endorsement for Broncos' general manager

Broncos could provide obvious trade partner for AFC East team following recent rumor

Broncos predicted to be in mix to sign future Hall of Fame linebacker