Stidham is primed to open the regular season as the top backup to Bo Nix, whom coach Sean Payton named the Broncos' starting quarterback Wednesday.
Stidham has been outplayed by Nix, the No. 12 overall pick of the 2024 NFL Draft, across two preseason games, so Payton's decision doesn't come as much of a surprise. Nix also boasts ample experience as a collegiate starter, while Stidham's modest arm strength and lack of scrambling potential leave him more comfortable in a reserve role. Barring an injury to Nix, Stidham is unlikely to see extended action for Denver this season, though he does seem comfortably ahead of No. 3 quarterback Zach Wilson on the depth chart.