The Denver Broncos are deep in the throes of a competitive training camp, where the battle for the starting quarterback position is intensifying. What began as a three-way competition now seems to be narrowing down, with Jarrett Stidham and rookie Bo Nix taking center stage.
Two weeks into camp, it appears Zach Wilson is falling behind. Despite the high hopes surrounding his acquisition from the New York Jets this offseason, Wilson finds himself potentially on the outside looking in. His track record with the Jets, which includes 12 wins and 21 losses over three seasons, coupled with a lackluster 4-7 record following Aaron Rodgers' season-ending Achilles injury last year, has done little to bolster confidence.
Stidham Poised to Lead
Jarrett Stidham's recent practice with the first-team offense on Tuesday suggests a level of trust not yet afforded to Wilson. Stidham’s familiarity with Sean Payton's offensive system, having worked under Payton's guidance previously, appears to be a substantial advantage. His tenure with the starting unit is a strong indicator that the coaching staff sees something significant in his play.
During last Tuesday's training camp practice, it was Stidham who took reps with the first-team offense, a responsibility that rotates between the quarterbacks. Both Bo Nix and Zach Wilson have had their turns, with Nix stepping up on Monday. However, Stidham's experience and the trust he’s garnered from the coaching staff might be the key differentiators.
Nix’s Strong Case
Rookie Bo Nix is making a compelling argument for himself as well. The first-round pick has shown promise and has been given opportunities to showcase his abilities with the starting unit. Despite his rookie status, Nix's performances have painted him as a potential contender, adding another layer of complexity to the quarterback decision.
With preseason games on the horizon, these matchups will serve as critical proving grounds for all three quarterbacks. The performances in these games could very well determine who ultimately secures the starting role for the Broncos. Rookie Nix, while lacking in NFL experience, has demonstrated the kind of raw talent and adaptability that can turn heads in preseason showcases.
Zach Wilson: Potential Unfulfilled?
Wilson’s path has been notably rocky. Acquired from the Jets where he posted a 5-4 run as a starter in 2022, his inconsistent play has not escaped attention. At just 24 years old, Wilson is the most athletic of the trio vying for the job. Yet, athleticism alone has not been enough to cement his position. Wilson’s inability to fully grasp the team’s offensive scheme as quickly as Stidham and Nix might be a telling factor.
Furthermore, Wilson's history doesn’t offer much assurance; a series of uneven performances during his time with the Jets has left some doubts. Despite his physical capabilities, the real question is whether Wilson can develop the consistency and understanding needed to thrive in Payton's system.
Undecided Future
Head Coach Sean Payton remains tight-lipped about the definitive direction for the starting quarterback position. When asked about the ongoing quarterback competition, Payton succinctly replied, "We'll see." His non-committal stance only amplifies the intrigue surrounding the Broncos' decision-making process.
The upcoming preseason games should provide a clearer picture, as each quarterback will have the chance to prove themselves worthy of the starting job. The Broncos, inching closer to finalizing their roster, must weigh experience, adaptability, and overall performance.
Stidham’s tenure with the first team suggests a leaning, but with Nix's strong outings and Wilson's potential athletic upside, the final decision remains a matter of keen observation and strategic choice. The Broncos’ coaching staff will continue to scrutinize each player, ensuring they select the quarterback most likely to drive the team toward success in the upcoming season.