Broncos’ Next Quarterback Move Could Be a Surprise Trade
With Bo Nix officially named as the Denver Broncos’ starting quarterback for the 2024 season, the team might be gearing up for another big move. Nix, who was the 12th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, is set to make history as the first first-round pick in franchise history to start Week 1 and the first rookie quarterback to start the season opener for the Broncos since John Elway in 1983.
So, with Nix solidified as QB1, what could be next for the Broncos at the quarterback position?
Jarrett Stidham, who took over as the starter last season after Russell Wilson, was signed by Denver in 2023 on a two-year, $10 million deal. Throughout the offseason, he has been competing with Nix for the starting job. Although it seemed clear from the moment Nix was drafted that he was the favorite, Stidham provided a necessary backup plan in case Nix didn’t perform as expected.
Now that Nix is officially the starter, Stidham’s future with the team could be uncertain.
Could the Denver Broncos consider trading Jarrett Stidham soon?
Trading Stidham could save the Broncos $6 million in salary cap space, nearly doubling their current cap room. If Denver decides to explore this option, they would likely have no trouble finding interested teams.
Stidham could arguably be the best quarterback on the New York Giants’ roster right now, or even the Minnesota Vikings’ roster with J.J. McCarthy injured. He would be a significant upgrade as the backup quarterback for the Green Bay Packers, who currently have Sean Clifford in that role. The Los Angeles Rams could also be a logical destination for Stidham.
There are plenty of teams that would be interested in acquiring Stidham, both for his potential to start and because they can easily fit him into their salary cap. Additionally, Stidham might find a better long-term opportunity with another team where he could compete for a starting job beyond this season.
Trading Stidham would be a logical move for the Broncos, especially considering Sean Payton’s growing confidence in Zach Wilson. The Broncos could opt to keep three quarterbacks on their 53-man roster, but moving Stidham to a better situation might not be their top priority right now.
Zach Wilson could easily step into the QB2 role for 2024, and it’s surprising that more people aren’t discussing this possibility. Wilson has more starting experience than anyone else in the Broncos’ quarterback room from his time with the New York Jets, and Payton seems impressed by his talent.
The Broncos could potentially trade Stidham to a team where he might have a chance to start, gain valuable salary cap space, and perhaps acquire a decent draft pick or two. Keep an eye on this situation in the coming weeks.
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