Broncos’ Jarrett Stidham embraces starting chance vs. Chargers

The Broncos’ potential spark on offense was dressed in a team Lululemon hoodie, hat and pair of Nike Dunks.

Jarrett Stidham addressed reporters as Denver’s starting quarterback on Wednesday after head coach Sean Payton brought the fourth-year signal caller into his office in the morning. There, he informed Stidham that he would replace nine-time Pro Bowler Russell Wilson in a move to find some offensive rhythm in the final two games of the season.

Whether or not Stidham is the solution Payton is looking for won’t be answered until Sunday’s matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers. For now, Stidham is excited for the opportunity to prove himself.

“Your goal is to get out on the field and play. That’s what my goal has always been and how I’ve prepared myself,” Stidham said. “(I’m going) to keep preparing like I have been my whole career and get ready to go.”

This isn’t Stidham’s first rodeo. As a backup for the Las Vegas Raiders last season, he replaced quarterback Derek Carr as the starter for the final two games, totaling 584 yards, four touchdowns and three interceptions.

However, the quarterback situation in Denver is a bit different. The Raiders were 6-9 and hardly in the playoff race when Stidham took over, whereas Denver (7-8) still has an outside shot at the postseason despite losing three of its last four games. Carr struggled down the stretch, throwing four touchdowns and six interceptions in his final three games as a starter, whereas Wilson is tied for sixth in the league in touchdown passes (26).

As puzzling as the move may be, Stidham said he and Wilson had a “great” interaction at practice.

“I’ve been extremely fortunate in my career to be around some incredible human beings and quarterbacks, and (Wilson) fits that category,” Stidham said. “I can’t speak highly enough of him.”

Payton complimented Stidham’s poise, footwork and arm strength while expressing confidence he can turn around an offense that has struggled recently. The Broncos head coach pointed to Stidham’s performance against the San Francisco 49ers in 2022, in which he threw for 365 yards, three touchdowns and two picks, as proof of his ability.

Payton has been supportive of Stidham since the team signed him to a two-year deal in the offseason. He said at the ownership meetings in March that the former Auburn standout has the chance to become a starter in the league.

“I think to get a true evaluation and see what (Stidham) can do, he needs to play,” Payton said. “I’m hopeful it gives us a spark. I’m hopeful we can do some other things better.”

Stidham is ready to show Broncos Country what he can do on the field. He showcased a glimpse in the preseason finale against the Los Angeles Rams when he threw for 236 yards and a touchdown.