Broncos HC Sean Payton Welcomes Competition at Backup QB

Is there an impending battle between Jarrett Stidham and Sam Ehlinger?

Apr. 1, 2026 at 8:38pm

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Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton hinted at a potential competition for the backup quarterback job between Jarrett Stidham and Sam Ehlinger, though Stidham appears to have the inside track to retain the QB2 role behind starter Bo Nix.

Why it matters

The Broncos' backup QB situation is an important storyline as the team looks to build depth and prepare for potential injuries to Nix, their starting quarterback. Payton's comments suggest he's open to an open competition, which could lead to an intriguing battle in training camp and the preseason.

The details

Stidham, the incumbent QB2, saw limited action last season until Nix suffered a fractured ankle in the playoffs. Ehlinger, the third-string QB, did not appear in any regular season games in 2025. Payton said the competition will fall under the purview of new quarterbacks coach Logan Kilgore, whom Payton praised for his experience and maturity.

  • Stidham started for Nix in the AFC Championship Game following the injury, throwing one touchdown pass but also committing two turnovers in a 10-7 loss to New England.
  • Ehlinger re-signed with the Broncos on a one-year, $2 million contract at the start of free agency last month.

The players

Sean Payton

The head coach of the Denver Broncos, who is overseeing the quarterback competition.

Jarrett Stidham

The incumbent backup quarterback for the Broncos, who saw increased playing time last season after starter Bo Nix's injury.

Sam Ehlinger

The third-string quarterback for the Broncos, who re-signed with the team on a one-year contract this offseason.

Bo Nix

The Broncos' starting quarterback, who suffered a fractured ankle during the team's playoff run last season.

Logan Kilgore

The Broncos' new quarterbacks coach, who Payton praised for his experience and maturity.

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What they’re saying

“We see competition... And it wasn't different last year. There's nothing that is etched in stone. There just isn't, and that's a good thing.”

— Sean Payton, Head Coach, Denver Broncos

“He's played quarterback. He was in our training camp in New Orleans. I'm kind of giving you his background. I think he's clearly one of those guys that has demonstrated that maturity that you look for in a coach that goes in to an advanced position. It starts with, 'Can you promote from within?' I think it's something that's well deserved. He's earned it.”

— Sean Payton, Head Coach, Denver Broncos

What’s next

The Broncos will continue to evaluate their quarterback depth chart leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft, where they could potentially select a signal-caller to add to the competition.

The takeaway

Payton's openness to a backup QB competition suggests he wants to ensure the Broncos have a capable option behind starter Bo Nix, who is coming off a season-ending injury. While Jarrett Stidham appears to have the edge, the battle with Sam Ehlinger could push both players to elevate their game and provide the team with a stronger QB2 option.