Broncos Backup QB Jarrett Stidham Linked to Jets Trade Rumors

Denver's No. 2 QB could be a cost-effective option for QB-needy New York

Mar. 2, 2026 at 5:07pm

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According to a report from ESPN's Rich Cimini, the New York Jets are eyeing Denver Broncos backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham as a potential trade target this offseason. Cimini cited the connection between Jets GM Darren Mougey and Stidham from their time together in Denver as a factor that could lead to a deal, though the Broncos are unlikely to part with the 29-year-old QB given his relatively low salary and status as the team's QB2 behind starter Bo Nix.

Why it matters

The Jets are in the market for a new starting quarterback after a disappointing 2025 season, and Stidham could provide a cost-effective veteran option to compete for the job or serve as a capable backup. However, the Broncos may be reluctant to trade away their experienced QB2 with starter Bo Nix entering just his second season.

The details

Stidham is set to make $5.99 million in base salary in 2026, the final year of his current contract with the Broncos. With third-string QB Sam Ehlinger slated for free agency, Denver may prefer to keep Stidham as insurance behind Nix. The report also mentions that the Broncos could potentially look to trade starting left guard Ben Powers, who has a large $18.155 million cap hit in 2026.

  • Stidham is under contract with the Broncos through the 2026 season.

The players

Jarrett Stidham

A 29-year-old backup quarterback for the Denver Broncos who is under contract through the 2026 season.

Darren Mougey

The current general manager of the New York Jets, who previously worked with Stidham during his time in the Broncos' front office.

Bo Nix

The starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos, entering his second season in 2026.

Ben Powers

The Denver Broncos' incumbent starting left guard, who could potentially be included in a trade due to his large $18.155 million cap hit in 2026.

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What they’re saying

“Everybody wants to know who will line up behind center in 2026. The Jets have been linked to no fewer than a dozen quarterbacks, everyone from the retired Derek Carr to Malik Willis. It's not a great year to need a QB1, so there's no surefire answer out there.”

— Rich Cimini, ESPN Reporter

“There's a sense that the Jets will look to add two veterans, steering away from overpriced big names and focusing on cost-effective backups/stop-gap starters -- players such as Tanner McKee, Spencer Rattler and Tyson Bagent. Another one to watch is Jarrett Stidham, who is under contract with the Denver Broncos. General manager Darren Mougey knows him from his time in Denver.”

— Rich Cimini, ESPN Reporter

What’s next

The Broncos will likely decide whether to keep Stidham or explore trade options for him in the coming weeks as the 2026 NFL offseason gets underway.

The takeaway

The Jets' search for a new starting quarterback continues, with Broncos backup Jarrett Stidham emerging as a potential cost-effective option due to his connection with Jets GM Darren Mougey. However, the Broncos may be reluctant to part with Stidham given his affordable contract and status as the team's QB2 behind Bo Nix.