The Denver Broncos' training camp is heating up, with the spotlight increasingly focused on the battle for the starting quarterback position. Initially a three-way competition, the contenders are now finding their standings more clearly defined as the camp progresses. Jarrett Stidham and rookie Bo Nix appear to be making significant strides, while Zach Wilson might be finding himself on the outside looking in.
During the latest practice session on Tuesday, Stidham was seen taking reps with the first-team offense. This was notably Wilson’s scheduled turn in the rotation, highlighting Stidham's potential leap in the eyes of the coaching staff. On Monday, it was Nix who had his chance to work with the starting unit, and he has been making a strong case throughout camp.
Head Coach Sean Payton has kept his cards close to the vest, remaining largely non-committal about a definitive direction for the quarterback position. When pressed for a comment, Payton succinctly responded, "We'll see."
Zach Wilson, acquired from the New York Jets during this offseason, comes with a complex history. With the Jets, Wilson posted a record of 12 wins and 21 losses over three seasons. His 2022 stint was slightly more promising, managing a 5-4 run as the Jets' starter before a downturn the following year. Last season, Wilson struggled to instill confidence, recording a 4-7 record after Aaron Rodgers' season-ending Achilles injury in Week 1. At 24, Wilson is the most athletic of the trio, but athleticism alone may not be enough to secure the starting role.
Vitally, Wilson isn’t a first-round pick like Bo Nix, nor does he have the experience with Denver's offensive scheme that Stidham boasts. Stidham's familiarity with Payton's system is proving to be a significant advantage. His tenure with the first-team offense during Tuesday’s practice suggests a growing trust from the coaching staff, a crucial factor at this juncture of the competition.
Nix, on the other hand, brings the promise of untapped potential as a first-round pick. The rookie has been impressive, utilizing his opportunities with the first-team offense effectively. Although it's just training camp, every snap and every throw are scrutinized as the team inches closer to finalizing their roster.
With preseason games on the horizon, the quarterbacks are well aware that these encounters will serve as critical proving grounds. Performance under game conditions will weigh heavily in Payton’s decision-making process. These games will be pivotal in determining who will ultimately lead the Broncos' offense when the regular season kicks off.
The battle thus far has shown that the competition is fierce, and while Wilson’s athleticism and history in the NFL bring value, Stidham’s knowledge of Payton’s playbook and Nix’s potential make this a truly open contest. As the preseason games loom, Broncos fans will be watching closely, eager to see who will emerge as the team’s starting quarterback.
The clock is ticking, and the pressure is mounting with each practice. One thing is certain—whoever steps into the role will need to demonstrate not just skill and talent, but the leadership and consistency necessary to guide the Broncos through the season ahead.