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Broncos' Quarterback Future Uncertain After Wilson's Exit

  //sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2 .. erback-future-uncertain-after-wilson-s-exit.html
  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, February 16th 2026 at 22:00 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: Colorado, Massachusetts, Louisiana, UNITED STATES

Denver, Colorado - February 17th, 2026 - As the dust settles on another disappointing season for the Denver Broncos, attention isn't on playoff aspirations, but on a crucial question: who will be under center in 2026? With the team mathematically eliminated from contention since Week 15, the final game of the 2025 season against the Kansas City Chiefs isn't about wins or losses, it's about evaluation - specifically, the evaluation of quarterback Jarrett Stidham.

The Broncos' decision to bench Russell Wilson mid-season, after a significant investment in the veteran, signaled a clear acknowledgement that the experiment wasn't working. While the financial implications of moving on from Wilson were considerable, the on-field results necessitated a change. Enter Jarrett Stidham, initially a practice squad signing, thrust into the spotlight as a potential glimpse into the future.

Stidham's six games as starter haven't been spectacular, posting 1,275 passing yards, five touchdowns, and three interceptions. These numbers don't scream franchise quarterback, but they are far from disastrous, particularly considering his origins as a late-season addition. Crucially, Stidham has demonstrated flashes of poise, good decision-making under pressure, and the ability to extend plays - qualities that were often lacking during the Wilson era. Coach Sean Payton, known for his quarterback acumen, has publicly acknowledged Stidham's contributions, stating he's "given us a chance" and "showed us he can play."

However, those 'chances' haven't always materialized into positive outcomes. Stidham has also showcased inconsistencies, missed throws, and moments of questionable judgement. He is, after all, a quarterback with limited starting experience. The question isn't whether he's a perfect quarterback, but whether he represents a viable, cost-effective option as the Broncos rebuild.

Looking ahead to the 2026 season, the Broncos have multiple paths to explore. The free agent market is always a possibility, but after several high-profile veteran quarterbacks underperformed in recent years, Denver may be hesitant to overspend on another established name. Several promising veterans are expected to be available, including potentially a revitalized Baker Mayfield, should Tampa Bay opt not to re-sign him, and intriguing younger options like Tua Tagovailoa if Miami decides to pursue a different direction. The issue, as always, will be balancing experience with potential and cost.

The 2026 NFL Draft presents another avenue. Denver currently holds the No. 12 overall pick, a position that could land them one of the top quarterback prospects. Names like Drake Powers from Coastal Carolina and Jackson Reed from USC are generating significant buzz amongst scouts. However, the draft is an unpredictable landscape, and Denver may need to consider trading up to secure their desired prospect, potentially sacrificing valuable draft capital.

But the most immediate factor influencing the Broncos' quarterback decision is Stidham's performance in the final game against the Chiefs. This isn't simply about winning; it's about demonstrating tangible progress and showcasing the qualities that Payton believes he possesses. Can Stidham consistently make good reads? Can he protect the ball and minimize turnovers? Can he command the offense with confidence and efficiency? These are the questions Payton will be scrutinizing.

Reports indicate the Broncos front office, led by GM George Paton, is particularly keen on assessing Stidham's ability to learn and adapt within Payton's complex offensive scheme. A strong showing against a tough Chiefs defense would suggest Stidham is a quick learner and a player worth investing in, potentially as a bridge quarterback while the team develops a longer-term solution through the draft. A poor performance, however, could effectively seal his fate.

The Broncos' situation is a cautionary tale for teams quick to spend big on veteran quarterbacks. The Russell Wilson experiment, while initially exciting, ultimately proved to be a costly mistake. Denver is now determined to adopt a more measured approach, prioritizing long-term sustainability over short-term fixes. Stidham's audition is a critical part of that process. While he may not be the ultimate answer, he has earned the right to compete for the job and demonstrate that he can be a viable option for the Broncos' future.