NFL Rumors: Broncos Could Start Newly Signed QB Over Russell Wilson

The Denver Broncos made an intriguing move in the free agency, signing quarterback Jarrett Stidham to a two-year deal worth $10 million, with $5 million guaranteed.

Stidham has only started two games in his four-year NFL career but impressed in his first start for the Las Vegas Raiders last season, throwing for 365 yards and three touchdowns against the top defense in the San Francisco 49ers.

Jarrett Stidham! Davante Adams! Run it back.

📺: #SFvsLV on FOX
📱: Stream on NFL+ https://t.co/AWLwvE0huJ pic.twitter.com/TazRLCgZOZ

— NFL (@NFL) January 1, 2023

While Stidham is currently set to serve as the backup quarterback behind Russell Wilson, some speculate that he could end up starting if Wilson struggles midseason.

However, NBC Sports writer Peter King believes that the signing was not intended to put pressure on Wilson, but rather to explore backup QB options, with Stidham offering significant upside as a young prospect.

.@peter_king, on the Broncos' signing of Jarrett Stidham: "If Wilson by midseason 2023 is having a similarly disastrous season to his first one in Denver, Payton won’t have to punt on the season. He’ll have an intriguing backup waiting in the wings." More: https://t.co/AcJyKGXG2c

— Andrew Mason (@MaseDenver) March 20, 2023

The Broncos had considered signing a veteran quarterback such as Andy Dalton, but ultimately decided to take a chance on Stidham's potential.

The signing of Stidham presents an intriguing option for the Broncos should Wilson struggle in the upcoming season, and it will be interesting to see how they utilize him in the coming years.

“Getting to play under [Coach Payton and] getting to work with him every day — I’m very, very excited about that.”

QB @Jarrett_Stidham on why Denver was the right fit: pic.twitter.com/IqkXffZQJT

— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) March 16, 2023

Photo Credit:  Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports