Andrew Buller-Russ
Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton recently admitted that his team could still add another quarterback while Bo Nix recovers from the broken ankle that kept him 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 just 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 since 2022 with the Colts. So, if the Broncos do want more capable competition behind Nix to help install their offense, who might coach Payton turn to? Here are four potential solutions.
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Jimmy Garoppolo
Still unsigned and reportedly mulling retirement at the age of 34, Garoppolo has been entrusted to back up 2025 NFL MVP Matthew Stafford for the past two seasons. Like Nix, Jimmy G doesn’t have a very strong arm, and his top priority is keeping the ball out of harm’s way. He’s also a proven winner, having taken his team to two Super Bowl appearances. He feels like the perfect bridge QB until Nix is back to 100% in Denver.
Will Levis
Cast aside after the Titans made Cam Ward the No. 1 pick, Levis will still be just 27 when the season starts. He was sidelined all of last season with a shoulder injury, but now he is back to 100% and likely itching for a change of scenery. Learning from coach Payton could provide a springboard for the former second-round pick’s career, and the Titans likely would be willing to trade him with Mitchell Trubisky entrenched as the backup.
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 would 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 side project for the Broncos.
Russell Wilson
Would he really come back? It depends on how desperate Wilson is for another NFL opportunity. He’s said to be mulling TV job offers and even a contract from the Jets. Yet, if Wilson wants a chance to join another Super Bowl contender, he could view the Broncos as a job that’s too good to turn down. He’d certainly bring a competitive spirit to practice until Nix can rally the troops.
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