Denver Broncos Agree to Two-Year Deal with QB Jarrett Stidham

The Denver Broncos have reached a two-year deal with quarterback Jarrett Stidham worth up to $12 million with $7 million guaranteed. Stidham, 28, competed for the starting position last summer but never threw a pass last season due to the emergence of rookie quarterback Bo Nix. He has passed for 1,422 yards, eight touchdowns, and eight interceptions in 19 games for the Patriots, Raiders, and Broncos.

The Denver Broncos' quarterback room has been a hot topic of discussion during training camp, with incumbent starter Jarrett Stidham and rookie Bo Nix vying for the starting position. Stidham, who competed for the job last summer but didn't see any action last season due to Nix's emergence, has been making a strong case for himself under the watchful eyes of his teammates and coaches [1].

Before the 2024 NFL draft, Denver Broncos tight end Adam Trautman, who recently signed a two-year, $7.5 million deal, spoke highly of Stidham's potential to be the team's starter [1]. However, the Broncos' front office had other plans, selecting Oregon quarterback Bo Nix with the 12th overall pick.

Since then, Stidham has been pitted against Nix in an open competition. Despite his experience and command of the offense, Stidham has been cautious with the ball, showcasing his veteran savvy but also his need to protect it [1]. On the other hand, Nix, who boasts a record-breaking 61 college starts, has displayed a willingness to take risks and push the ball downfield, separating himself from Stidham in this regard [1].

Trautman, who has had a front-row seat to the competition, has praised Nix's ability to balance both aspects of quarterbacking, noting the importance of having a signal-caller who can make the gimme throws while also possessing the intestinal fortitude to take risks [1].

The Broncos' quarterback room is a testament to the nuanced and often intangible qualities that make for an effective NFL starter. While Stidham's experience and caution with the ball are valuable assets, Nix's willingness to take risks and exploit opportunities downfield may ultimately give him the edge in the competition.

References:

[1] SI.com. (2024, July 26). Adam Trautman remarks on Bo Nix, Jarrett Stidham. Retrieved from https://www.si.com/nfl/broncos/news/adam-trautman-remarks-bo-nix-jarrett-stidham