Broncos Re-Sign No. 3 QB Sam Ehlinger

Ehlinger agrees to one-year, $2 million deal to remain in Denver

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Denver Broncos have re-signed third-string quarterback Sam Ehlinger to a one-year, $2 million contract, keeping their quarterback room intact for the 2026 season. Ehlinger was slated to hit free agency this week but turned down multiple offers to sign with other teams' active rosters when he was on the Broncos' practice squad last season.

Why it matters

Retaining Ehlinger provides the Broncos with valuable quarterback depth and continuity as they look to build on their 2025 season under new head coach Sean Payton. Ehlinger has impressed the coaching staff with his development, and the team believes he can continue to grow in their system.

The details

Ehlinger's new one-year deal will pay him $2 million for the 2026 season. Both Payton and offensive coordinator David Webb have spoken highly of Ehlinger, saying they believe Denver is a place where he'll continue to develop as a quarterback. Broncos starting QB Bo Nix is heading into the third year of his rookie contract, while backup Jarrett Stidham is in the second year of a two-year deal.

  • Ehlinger was slated to hit free agency this week.
  • Ehlinger turned down multiple offers to sign with other teams' active rosters when he was on the Broncos' practice squad last season.

The players

Sam Ehlinger

A third-string quarterback who has agreed to a new one-year, $2 million contract to remain with the Denver Broncos.

Sean Payton

The head coach of the Denver Broncos, who has spoken highly of Ehlinger and believes he can continue to develop in Denver.

David Webb

The offensive coordinator of the Denver Broncos, who has also praised Ehlinger's potential.

Bo Nix

The Broncos' starting quarterback, who is heading into the third year of his rookie contract.

Jarrett Stidham

The Broncos' backup quarterback, who is in the second year of a two-year contract.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

Retaining Ehlinger provides the Broncos with valuable quarterback depth and continuity as they look to build on their 2025 season under new head coach Sean Payton. The team believes Ehlinger can continue to develop in their system, which is a positive sign for the future of the Broncos' quarterback room.