Sean Payton opened up about the Broncos’ QBs, revealing trade talks to maximize value before free agency.

Sean Payton opened up about the Broncos’ QBs, revealing trade talks to maximize value before free agency.

With the trade deadline just over a week away, Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton was questioned about the interest in the team’s backup quarterbacks.

While rookie first-round pick Bo Nix holds the QB1 spot, veterans Jarrett Stidham and Zach Wilson are potential trade candidates, especially since both will be free agents after the season. It makes sense to seek value before they leave.

 

 

 

 

However, Payton isn’t keen on letting anyone from the QB room go. He mentioned that Broncos general manager George Payton would be the best source for trade discussions and indicated that the team has already fielded inquiries.

 

 

 

 

 

“We’ll get some initial calls. A team reached out a couple of weeks ago, just touching base, but nothing substantial. It’s still early,” Payton said on October 25.

He emphasized that while they discuss trades daily, their current focus remains on the team. “I get the questions, and it’s normal. Some teams are actively shopping players, but right now, I like our group.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ultimately, Payton’s willingness to part with a backup QB may hinge on the strength of any potential offers, especially given the needs other teams may have.

 

 

 

 

Broncos expected to entertain trade offers for backup quarterbacks.

Jarrett Stidham signed a two-year, $10 million deal with the Broncos in the 2023 offseason. Initially named QB1 in training camp, he lost that position to rookie Bo Nix, selected No. 12 overall, during the preseason.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Broncos traded for Zach Wilson, swapping picks with the New York Jets. The former No. 2 overall pick in the 2021 draft has since been the team’s QB3.

 

 

 

“Stidham lost the competition to Nix, making him QB2 on game days,” noted ESPN’s Jeff Legwold on October 23. “However, the Broncos remain interested in Wilson’s physical talents and arm strength, which he showcased during practices and preseason games. One of these quarterbacks could be traded, especially considering the team’s tight salary cap situation after releasing Russell Wilson earlier this year. The Broncos need draft capital and are open to offers.”

 

 

 

Payton has praised Stidham as a potential starter for 2023, turning to him after benching Wilson for the last two games of the previous season.

 

 

 

 

Sean Payton, Broncos warn against quarterback trade

Holding onto both backup QBs could be a wise move for the Broncos, depending on potential trade returns. Mike Klis of 9News highlighted that the identity of the trading partner is crucial.

 

 

 

 

“Miami and Cleveland might not be in playoff contention now, but acquiring either Stidham or Wilson could help them improve their quarterback situations and possibly get back in the race,” Klis noted on October 23. “With the 4-3 Broncos in the mix for an AFC wild-card spot before their matchup against the struggling Panthers, trading one of their capable backups to an AFC rival—especially the Browns, whom they face in six weeks—could be risky.”

 

 

 

 

The Dolphins recently activated starting QB Tua Tagovailoa from injured reserve, but his injury history might lead them to seek a more reliable backup. They currently have Skylar Thompson and Tim Boyle on the roster.

 

 

 

The Browns are now relying on veteran Jameis Winston, a former reclamation project of Payton, after losing starter Deshaun Watson to a torn Achilles in Week 7. They also have second-year QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson available.

 

 

 

Klis’ point remains: any team willing to give up draft capital for a bridge QB is likely vying for a playoff spot, which would create more competition for the Broncos.