After benching quarterback Russell Wilson, the Denver Broncos turned their offense over to Jarrett Stidham for the final two games of the 2023 season.
Stidham didn’t look any better than Wilson, but he is cheaper. The Broncos are expected to release Wilson in March. Stidham’s future is less certain.
Stidham is scheduled to have a $7 million salary cap hit in 2024. It’s possible that Denver might opt to go into next season with Stidham and a rookie (the Broncos hold the 12th overall pick in the draft).
Alternatively, Denver could release Stidham and save $5 million in cap space. With that saved cap space, the Broncos might be able to afford a bargain free agent QB this spring such as Jameis Winston or Gardner Minshew.
It will come down to how much faith coach Sean Payton has in Stidham. After signing him last spring, Payton saw Stidham in training camp and practice all season leading up to the QB’s two starts in 2023. If the coach isn’t confident in Stidham going forward, the Broncos might be able to find an upgrade in free agency this spring.
Keeping in mind that Denver could pair a veteran with a rookie this offseason, here’s a quick look at the ten most notable QBs set to become free agents in March.