The Denver Broncos are heading into the summer with three quarterbacks—Jarrett Stidham, Zach Wilson, and Bo Nix—vying for the starting role. While fans and analysts have their preferences, coach Sean Payton is in no hurry to decide who will lead the team in Week 1.
During the start of the mandatory minicamp on Tuesday, Payton was questioned about his timeline for naming the starting quarterback. “No, [but] fair question,” Payton responded. “I mentioned this regarding this time of the year. It’s not just about the quarterback position, though that’s obviously critical. We’re rotating players among the ones, twos, and threes daily. We’re adopting a similar approach across various positions. This period is essential for such evaluations.”
Payton indicated that while he aims to make a decision by the week before the first game, he doesn’t have a fixed date. The Broncos are scheduled to face the Seattle Seahawks on September 8th in their opening game. Payton assured that a decision will be made before then, but he’s not tied to a specific timeline.
Currently, Stidham holds an edge due to his second year in Payton’s offensive system. However, Nix, a first-round draft pick, is seen as the team’s long-term quarterback. Payton was asked whether the decision would be based on immediate performance or the developmental benefits of starting Nix.
“Fair question,” Payton remarked. “We always consider the locker room dynamics. As we progress through training camp and preseason games, these decisions often become clearer. Our primary goal is to win. While I understand the long-term considerations, our focus is on the current season. We aim to choose the player who best enhances our chances of success.”
Payton also noted increased competition across various positions, including the secondary and receiver groups, which he finds encouraging. He suggested that observers might notice a change compared to last year’s practices, emphasizing the improved competitiveness.
When pressed again about a timeline for selecting the starting quarterback, Payton humorously replied, “Here we go again. I don’t have a date; I have a gut.” Thus, the final decision will come when Payton feels it’s right, potentially during training camp or the preseason.
Ultimately, Payton’s instinct will guide the announcement of the Broncos’ starting quarterback for their Week 1 matchup in Seattle. The exact timing remains uncertain, but the decision is expected before the season begins.
