Broncos HC Sean Payton Welcomes Competition at Backup QB

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

Apr. 1, 2026 at 8:52pm

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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. Payton noted that 'there's nothing that is etched in stone' regarding the depth chart behind starting QB Bo Nix. While Stidham has the edge after seeing playing time in the playoffs last season, Ehlinger will get a chance to compete for the QB2 role under new quarterbacks coach Logan Kilgore.

Why it matters

The Broncos' backup QB situation is an important storyline to watch as the team heads into the 2026 NFL Draft. Payton's comments suggest the team is open to an open competition, which could impact their draft strategy if they feel the need to add another young QB to the mix.

The details

Jarrett Stidham served as the Broncos' backup QB in 2025, taking over for the injured Bo Nix in the playoffs. Sam Ehlinger was the team's third-string QB last season but has been re-signed to a one-year deal. Payton praised new QBs coach Logan Kilgore's ability to develop the position, indicating he'll oversee the competition between Stidham and Ehlinger. While Stidham has the edge, Payton's comments leave the door open for Ehlinger to potentially leap-frog him on the depth chart.

  • Stidham started for the injured Bo Nix in the Broncos' AFC Championship Game loss to the Patriots in January 2026.
  • Ehlinger re-signed with the Broncos on a one-year, $2 million contract in March 2026.

The players

Sean Payton

The head coach of the Denver Broncos, who is overseeing the competition for the backup QB job.

Jarrett Stidham

The Broncos' incumbent backup quarterback who saw playing time in the playoffs last season.

Sam Ehlinger

The Broncos' third-string QB last season who has been re-signed and will compete for the backup job.

Bo Nix

The Broncos' starting quarterback who suffered a fractured ankle late last season.

Logan Kilgore

The Broncos' new quarterbacks coach who will oversee the competition between Stidham and Ehlinger.

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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 Stidham and Ehlinger throughout the offseason program and preseason games to determine their backup QB depth chart heading into the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Payton's comments suggest the Broncos are open to an open competition for the backup QB job, which could impact their draft plans if they feel the need to add another young signal-caller to the mix. The battle between Stidham and Ehlinger will be an important storyline to follow as the team prepares for the upcoming season.