The Denver Broncos are weighing whether to trade Jarrett Stidham this offseason amid ongoing speculation about his future role on the team. After Stidham impressed as a backup quarterback in the AFC Championship Game against the New England Patriots, uncertainty remains about his fit behind starter Bo Nix and the team’s plans going forward.
Questions Surrounding Stidham’s Role After AFC Title Game Performance
Jarrett Stidham stepped in admirably for Bo Nix during the Broncos’ close loss to the Patriots in the AFC Championship Game, nearly leading the team to an upset. Despite this, some analysts, including ClutchPoints’ Bailey Bassett, argue that Stidham has outlasted his usefulness as a backup in Denver. Bassett suggests trading Stidham to clear salary cap space, citing his $8 million contract for the 2026 season but relatively low $3.5 million dead money penalty if moved.
Bassett noted that although Stidham outperformed Patriots MVP candidate Drake Maye in the game, his overall performance was uneven. Bassett wrote,
“Jarrett Stidham has Sean Payton’s trust. He was always viewed as one of the best backup quarterbacks in the NFL before he was thrust into a starting role in the Broncos most important game in a decade, too. Unfortunately, Stidham didn’t play hero. He couldn’t get the offense going for most of the game, and he made some very questionable and costly decisions,”
highlighting the frustration among Broncos fans.
He added,
“…it left a sour taste in the mouths of Broncos fans that may prevent the team from ever trusting him again. Stidham is set to make $8 million next season, but the dead money on his contract is just $3.5 million. The Broncos may decide to move on and get a new backup quarterback to work behind Nix. Doing so would free up a little chunk of change for the Broncos to spend in free agency.”
Potential Landing Spots for Jarrett Stidham in 2026
Several NFL teams could benefit from acquiring Stidham as a reliable backup quarterback for the 2026 season, considering his experience and ability to start if necessary. The Indianapolis Colts, for instance, might require a seasoned backup while Daniel Jones recovers from an Achilles injury. Jones is slated to return at the season’s start but may need additional support to ease back into full play.
The Las Vegas Raiders, anticipating the selection of Indiana Hoosiers star Fernando Mendoza with the first overall draft pick, could also use a veteran presence behind their rookie QB. Stidham has familiarity with the Raiders organization, although he did not play in coaching regimes under Andrew Janocko or Klint Kubiak. Kubiak departed the Broncos before Stidham’s arrival, complicating continuity.
Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Steelers could see value in Stidham as insurance if Aaron Rodgers returns or if they decide to rely less on young QB Will Howard. Stidham’s chances to start might be greater in Pittsburgh than in Denver, offering him a potential fresh start and the Broncos a roster and salary cap reassessment.
Decision Looms for Broncos Amid Backup Quarterback Depth Concerns
As the Broncos evaluate their quarterback depth chart and salary commitments, the choice to keep or trade Jarrett Stidham carries significant weight. Moving Stidham could provide financial flexibility to strengthen the roster ahead of the 2026 season, particularly in free agency. However, retaining him offers proven reliability behind Bo Nix amid uncertainty about any upcoming backups.
The impending decision will affect not only Denver’s backup quarterback situation but possibly the trajectory of teams like the Colts, Raiders, and Steelers, who are looking to secure dependable veteran talent. Ultimately, the Broncos’ choice will reflect their confidence in Stidham’s ability to support or elevate the team in critical moments.
