The Denver Broncos have a wide-open race for their backup quarterback position. Since starting quarterback Bo Nix is sitting out of offseason practices with an ankle injury, backups Jarrett Stidham and Sam Ehlinger are getting a lot more playing time to prove themselves.

Last season, Stidham was the primary backup, and Ehlinger was the third-string option. However, head coach Sean Payton revealed that Ehlinger has taken the lead this year.

“Today, there were a handful of plays, maybe a year ago at this time from a terminology standpoint or just the rhythm [that wasn't there in 2025]. But I definitely feel like you can see that, and that’s encouraging,” Payton said on Thursday after the practice, as per Broncoswire.com.

According to Broncos Wire, Payton is already noticing significant progress from his players during practices. While Ehlinger served only as an emergency option last year and didn't play a single regular-season game, the Broncos like his progress.

They recently re-signed him to a one-year, $2 million contract. However, that doesn't mean Ehlinger has been confirmed for the position. 

“We see competition…There’s nothing that is etched in stone," Payton said.

Another QB2 candidate, Stidham, struggled when he filled in during January's AFC Championship game.

However, we will know that only once the 53-man roster gets announced. For now, the league is eagerly anticipating its primary QB, Bo Nix’s return.

Broncos HC Payton Provides an Update On Bo Nix

The Denver Broncos are playing it safe with Bo Nix during their offseason workouts. Even though Nix has started throwing the football again, the team is being careful not to rush his recovery.

Nix broke his ankle during the playoffs and needed a minor follow-up surgery in April to clean it up. This extra procedure delayed his return, forcing the Broncos to take a very cautious approach with their new quarterback. Head coach Sean Payton shared an update after a recent practice.

“Good. It’s kind of what I told you. I think we’ll see him in that role here. I mean, you don’t see the pre-practice, but he’s been throwing,” Payton said, as per SI.com. “I do think in our third week, when you guys are out here for three straight days, I think you’ll see more of a role.” 

The team guarantees Nix will be fully ready for training camp later this summer. However, Payton left the door open for an earlier return. 

Most fans anticipate seeing Nix on the field during June's mandatory minicamp. What are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments.

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Written by

Aaindri Thakuri

Edited by

Shubhi Rathore