The Denver Broncos are one win away from the Super Bowl-but they'll have to chase that dream without their starting quarterback, Bo Nix.
Nix suffered a broken ankle in the final moments of Saturday’s AFC Divisional Round win over the Buffalo Bills at Mile High, a freak injury that now forces Denver to shift gears at the most critical point in their season. With Nix sidelined, the Broncos will hand the reins to veteran backup Jarrett Stidham as they prepare for next Sunday’s AFC Championship Game at home against either the Houston Texans or the New England Patriots.
It’s a brutal blow for a team that has found its rhythm at the right time. Nix, a rookie with a poise beyond his years, had been steadily growing into the role, managing the offense with confidence and helping lead the Broncos to the brink of a Super Bowl berth. Now, it’s up to Stidham to keep that momentum alive.
Stidham isn’t new to high-pressure situations. He’s been around the league long enough to know what’s at stake, and while he doesn’t bring the same mobility or improvisation that Nix offered, he’s capable of operating within Sean Payton’s system. The question is whether the Broncos feel comfortable rolling with just Stidham and third-stringer Sam Ehlinger-or if they’ll look to bring in another quarterback as insurance.
There are a handful of free-agent signal callers currently available who could be on Denver’s radar. None of them are going to turn the playoff picture upside down, but in a league where depth at quarterback can be the difference between a Super Bowl run and a season-ending stumble, even a stopgap option could prove valuable.
Let’s take a look at a few names who are out there.
Trevor Siemian
A familiar face in Denver, Siemian started 24 games for the Broncos between 2016 and 2017.
He knows the city, he knows the altitude, and he’s got enough experience to step in and manage a game if needed. He’s not flashy, but he’s serviceable-and that might be enough if the Broncos are just looking for a steady hand behind Stidham.
C.J. Beathard
Beathard’s been a reliable backup throughout his career, most recently with Jacksonville. He’s not someone you build a game plan around, but he brings toughness and a solid understanding of NFL defenses.
If Denver wants a veteran presence who won’t be rattled by the moment, Beathard could be a fit.
Kyle Trask
Trask, a second-round pick by the Buccaneers in 2021, hasn’t had much of a chance to prove himself in the league.
He spent time with the Falcons this season, and while he’s still raw, there’s some upside there. If the Broncos want to take a flyer on a young arm with potential, Trask could be worth a look.
Will Grier
Grier’s bounced around the league since entering as a third-round pick in 2019.
He’s had stints with the Panthers, Cowboys, and Patriots, and while he hasn’t stuck anywhere long-term, he’s shown flashes of competence. As an emergency option with some starting experience, he might be on Denver’s shortlist.
Jake Haener
A rookie out of Fresno State, Haener was suspended earlier this season but is now eligible and available.
He’s untested at the NFL level, but he’s got a quick release and good instincts. If Denver wants to add a developmental piece with a little upside, Haener could be in the mix.
Right now, the Broncos’ focus is on preparing Stidham to start the biggest game of the season. But behind the scenes, don’t be surprised if the front office is working the phones. Whether they make a move or not, the reality is this: Denver’s season now hinges on a backup quarterback stepping into the spotlight and delivering under playoff pressure.
It’s not the path they planned, but it’s the one they’re on. And if the Broncos can pull off one more win, they’ll be heading to the Super Bowl-no matter who’s under center.