Zach Wilson won’t be the Broncos’ starting quarterback.
And now, the focus turns to whether the former Jets bust will be the backup or potentially relegated to third-string duties, the practice squad or even the waiver wire.
Broncos coach Sean Payton previously said it’s possible the team could keep all three quarterbacks on the 53-man roster but has not divulged any more details with Denver’s regular-season opener just 17 days away.
“That room has been outstanding,” Payton told reporters, per The Denver Post. “We’ve got some tough decisions as we get into the roster.”
Wilson landed with the Broncos the week of the 2024 NFL Draft and any potential shot — however small — of him being the guy for Denver evaporated once they drafted Bo Nix with their first-round selection at No. 12 overall.
Payton officially named Nix the starter on Wednesday.
That leaves Wilson competing with Jarrett Stidham for the backup role to the former Oregon star.
Wilson has the better pedigree and is more accomplished at the NFL level, but Stidham started the final two games for Denver last season after Russell Wilson’s benching.
Payton did not say which quarterback will start Sunday’s preseason finale against the Cardinals, which could be a hint toward whom has the upper hand in the roster battle.
Wilson completed 10-of-13 passes for 117 yards in the Broncos’ preseason opener before posting a 2-of-6 line for 29 yards and one touchdown the last time out against the Packers.
Payton praised Wilson’s arm strength and decision-making, per The Denver Post, while adding he had an “outstanding” practice Wednesday.
“There were three throws today where (Wilson) was on a little bit of a heater. I mean, it was impressive,” Payton said, according to the outlet.
The Denver Post noted that it seemed Stidham had been the one competing for the starting job with Nix, and Payton said the 2019 fourth-round pick could help the rookie transition to the NFL.
“There’s a lot of room for growth with (Nix) and the same with Jarrett and Zach,” Payton said, according to the publication. “I like this room right now and where it’s at.”
