Broncos Backup QB Stidham Suddenly in Demand Ahead of NFL Trade Talks

Several teams have reached out to Denver about trading for reserve QB Jarrett Stidham, who started the AFC Championship game last season.

Mar. 4, 2026 at 5:55pm

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A surprising name has surfaced in early NFL trade discussions as teams explore quarterback options ahead of the new league year. Several teams have reached out to the Denver Broncos about trading for backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham, who has limited regular-season experience but drew a start in the AFC Championship game last season after the Broncos' starter was injured.

Why it matters

Stidham, a 2019 fourth-round pick, has developed a reputation as a cerebral, game-manager-type quarterback. His unexpected trade interest suggests teams are exploring low-risk, cost-controlled options who can either compete on a short leash or stabilize a quarterback room without a major financial commitment.

The details

Stidham has logged limited regular-season action across stints with the New England Patriots, Las Vegas Raiders, and Broncos. During Denver's 2025 playoff run, he was thrust into the spotlight after starter Bo Nix suffered an ankle injury, drawing the start in the AFC Championship Game against New England. Stidham completed 17 of 31 passes for 133 yards with one touchdown, one interception, and a lost fumble in a 10–7 loss.

  • Stidham started the AFC Championship Game for the Broncos in 2025 after the regular starter was injured.
  • Several teams have reached out to the Broncos about trading for Stidham ahead of the new league year, which opens on March 11, 2026.

The players

Jarrett Stidham

A fourth-round pick in 2019, Stidham has developed a reputation as a cerebral, game-manager-type quarterback with limited regular-season experience across stints with the New England Patriots, Las Vegas Raiders, and Denver Broncos.

Bo Nix

The Broncos' regular starting quarterback, who suffered an ankle injury during the 2025 playoffs, leading to Stidham's unexpected start in the AFC Championship Game.

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What they’re saying

“Several teams have reached out to the Denver Broncos about trading for backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham.”

— Dianna Russini

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This sudden trade interest in Stidham highlights how teams are exploring low-risk, cost-controlled quarterback options as they face varying degrees of uncertainty at the position and lack the cap space to pursue premium free-agent solutions.