Denver Broncos Quarterbacks Make Strong Cases for Roster Spots
In the final preseason game, Denver Broncos quarterbacks Zach Wilson and Jarrett Stidham both made strong closing cases for surviving roster cuts. The two QBs led the Broncos to a 38-12 victory over the Arizona Cardinals.
Wilson, the former second overall draft pick by the Jets in 2021, had an impressive performance, finishing 16 of 25 for 251 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions. He sparked an 11-play, 77-yard touchdown drive with an impressive scramble from his own 13 on second-and-20. He finished that drive with a 1-yard touchdown pass to tight end Nate Atkins that gave Denver a 14-0 lead.
Stidham, who is due $5 million this season, directed an efficient touchdown drive in his only possession, going 2 of 4 for 28 yards. He also showed his ability to make plays with his legs, scrambling for a first down on a third-and-5 play.
Broncos coach Sean Payton reiterated that he’d like to keep all three QBs, including Clayton Tune and Desmond Ridder, who split snaps in their final audition to serve as Kyler Murray’s backup in Arizona. Payton bristled when asked if financial ramifications will come into play when deciding how many QBs to keep.
“We feel comfortable with those three quarterbacks,” Payton said. “I think I’ve told you already I see the three of them making it.”
When asked about the possibility of Stidham taking a paycut to stick around, Payton said, “No, we’ve got enough money.”
The Broncos will have to make a decision on their roster by Tuesday, and it appears that all three QBs have made a strong case for sticking around.
