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Texas HS Star Joins Auburn Tigers

  //sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2026/01/24/texas-hs-star-joins-auburn-tigers.html
  Published in Sports and Competition on Saturday, January 24th 2026 at 8:13 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: Alabama, Texas, Colorado, UNITED STATES

From Texas High School Star to Auburn Tiger

Stidham's football story began in Stephenville, Texas, where he was a highly sought-after recruit, earning a four-star rating. He enrolled at Auburn University in 2015, immediately entering the fray as a freshman. While his initial contributions were modest - completing just 16 of 33 passes for 172 yards - they offered a glimpse of the talent that lay beneath. The following year saw increased action, and with 821 passing yards, 6 touchdowns and 4 interceptions, it seemed Stidham's future looked bright. 2017 arrived, and he was declared the starter. However, a costly three-interception performance against Mercer led to a benching and ultimately, a difficult decision.

A Change of Scenery: The Baylor Redemption

Recognizing the need for a fresh start, Stidham opted to transfer to Baylor University in 2018. NCAA transfer rules mandated a year of sitting out, forcing him to delay his playing time for a full season. This period, though frustrating, provided valuable time to observe, learn, and prepare for his return to the field in 2019.

2019 proved to be a pivotal year for Stidham. Returning to the field for Baylor, he demonstrated a remarkable resurgence. Completing 65.8% of his passes for an impressive 2,735 yards, alongside 24 touchdowns and only six interceptions, he led the Bears to a commendable 9-3 record. This season solidified his potential and demonstrated his ability to lead a team effectively.

The NFL Draft and Patriots Years: A Backup's Perspective

Capitalizing on this strong performance, Stidham declared for the 2020 NFL Draft. He was selected in the sixth round, 237th overall, by the New England Patriots. For five seasons, he served as a valuable, albeit often unseen, member of the Patriots' roster, learning from seasoned veterans and patiently waiting for his opportunity. While he did see occasional playing time, his role was primarily that of a backup, a position that allowed him to absorb invaluable experience and refine his skills.

Denver Broncos: A Chance to Start

The departure of Russell Wilson in March 2024 created a void in the Broncos' quarterback room, and Stidham swiftly stepped in to fill it. Now, he faces a critical competition with Bo Nix for the starting job. The Broncos are actively seeking a quarterback who can lead their offense and restore the team to contention, and Stidham has the opportunity to prove he's that man.

Analyzing Stidham's Game: Strengths and Areas for Improvement

Stidham possesses several qualities that make him an intriguing prospect. He is recognized for his strong arm and ability to make accurate throws. Furthermore, his decision-making skills and knack for finding open receivers are notable strengths. However, he's not without his weaknesses. His limited mobility can restrict his playmaking ability, and a tendency to commit turnovers has been a recurring concern. The Broncos' coaching staff will undoubtedly focus on addressing these areas to maximize his potential.

The Road Ahead in Denver

Jarrett Stidham's arrival in Denver marks a significant turning point in his career. The competition for the starting role will be fierce, but the opportunity is undeniable. If he can refine his game, particularly focusing on improving his agility and minimizing turnovers, he has the potential to not only secure the starting job but also become a valuable, and potentially impactful, asset for the Broncos. The narrative arc of his career has been one of patience and perseverance, and Denver offers him a chance to finally write a new, starring chapter.