Two former Auburn quarterbacks competed for the starting job in Denver during the preseason. Unfortunately, one had to lose.
The news broke this weekend that [autotag]Bo Nix[/autotag], the Broncos’ first-round pick in the 2024 NFL draft, had won the role of QB1 for Sean Payton and the Broncos. He beat out veteran Zach Wilson and fellow former Tiger [autotag]Jarrett Stidham[/autotag] for the job.
Speaking with the media following the Broncos’ preseason finale on Sunday, Stidham expressed his dismay.
“First of all, obviously, I was very disappointed,” Stidham said Sunday. “I know I’m a starting quarterback in this league. I have no doubts about that, and it just didn’t shake out my way. I know what kind of player I am, what kind of person I am. … I have no doubts that I’m a starting-caliber quarterback in this league.”
Stidham attempted 22 passes over the Broncos’ three preseason games, completing 13 for 130 yards and two interceptions. Nix edged Stidham for the role after completing 76% of his passes for 205 yards and two scores. Stidham says that he is going to help Nix prepare to take on an NFL starting job as a rookie.
“Obviously, I’m going to do whatever I can to help Bo get prepared,” Stidham said. “Obviously, he’s never had a real season like this in the NFL. I’m going to help him whatever way I can, and then also be ready to go if I need to be. So [I’m] just ready for the season to get here.”
Stidham is entering his fifth NFL season and his second with the Broncos. He has completed 59.4% of his passes for 1,422 yards and eight touchdowns. Stidham has also notched four starts. Stidham will work with Nix and continue to work toward becoming a full-time starter should the need arise in Denver or elsewhere.
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