The Broncos’ decision comes amid ongoing conversations about the “odd” QB market this offseason, with teams evaluating backups who could fetch draft capital or fit specific rosters. ESPN and other outlets have reported widespread interest in backups as teams seek value in a market defined by uncertainty at the position.
Stidham, 29, has spent three seasons in Denver and served as the backup to Nix during his higher-profile opportunities. He has career totals of 1,422 passing yards, eight touchdowns, and eight interceptions, and is entering the final year of his two-year contract. The Broncos’ evaluation will balance familiarity with performance when considering any trade.
One proposed scenario would send Stidham to an AFC rival in exchange for draft capital, potentially a mid-round pick, while the receiving team would obtain a veteran with starting-game experience. Alternatively, Denver could seek a higher return if a team views Stidham as a low-risk, short-term solution behind a young starter.
Denver has a ready-made replacement in-house if Stidham is moved. Sam Ehlinger, a former Colts draft pick, remains a capable option behind Nix, and the Broncos could re-sign him or pursue other depth options if Stidham is traded. The team’s broader strategy will hinge on how they value the QB room’s stability versus upgrading those immediate depth pieces.
As the Broncos evaluate their options, they must balance the need to maintain a reliable backup behind Nix with the opportunity to improve elsewhere on the roster. Any trade would need to align with Denver’s longer-term plan and provide a tangible return that complements the team’s playoff aspirations.
