Broncos Wire is rolling out its 90-man offseason roster series, and today we’re diving into the journey of sixth-year quarterback Jarrett Stidham, who now rocks jersey No. 8 after switching from No. 4 this offseason. Stidham’s story is one of resilience, growth, and the quest for a solidified spot in the NFL.
The Early Days Before Denver: Stidham's journey to the Broncos began with the New England Patriots, who selected him in the fourth round of the 2019 NFL Draft out of Auburn. Standing at 6-3 and weighing 215 pounds, he showed promise early on. During his first two seasons with the Patriots, he appeared in five games. While his completion rate hovered at 50%, he managed to throw for 270 yards, scoring two touchdowns but also logging four interceptions.
Stidham spent 2021 mostly as a third-string backup, a role that didn’t give him much opportunity to shine. However, his career took a turn when he was traded to the Las Vegas Raiders in 2022 for a late-round draft pick. This move provided him with a fresh start, and he seized the opportunity. He started the final two games of that season and significantly improved his stats, completing 63.9% of his passes for 656 yards, along with four touchdowns and three interceptions. These performances caught the eye of the Denver Broncos.
The Denver Chapter: In 2023, the Denver Broncos signed Stidham to a two-year, $10 million contract during free agency. This was a significant step for Stidham, as it offered him a chance to prove his worth. The Broncos had a rough patch last fall, leading to the benching of Russell Wilson. Stidham stepped up, starting the final two games of the season. During these games, he showcased a 60.6% completion rate, threw for 496 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. These stats, while not spectacular, demonstrated his potential and reliability as a quarterback.
Stidham's Role and Future with the Broncos: As the Broncos head into the new season, Stidham’s chances of making the 53-man roster look promising. He’s currently in a competitive battle for the starting quarterback position with Bo Nix and Zach Wilson. Even if he doesn't secure the QB1 spot, Stidham is poised to be a valuable veteran backup. His experience and steady performance make him a reliable option should the starting quarterback face any challenges. Additionally, if Nix clinches the starting job, Stidham’s role could evolve into that of a mentor, guiding the younger quarterback through the rigors of an NFL season.
Key Highlights:
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Stidham's Early Struggles: His initial years with the Patriots were challenging, with limited game appearances and mixed performances. However, these early struggles were essential for his growth as a player.
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A New Opportunity with the Raiders: The trade to the Raiders was a turning point for Stidham, giving him a chance to demonstrate his abilities with more game time and better stats.
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Proving Ground in Denver: The two-year, $10 million deal with the Broncos was a clear indication of the team's belief in his potential. His performance in the last two games of the previous season further solidified his position as a reliable option for the team.
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Competitive Spirit: The ongoing competition with Bo Nix and Zach Wilson for the starting job this summer keeps the quarterback position dynamic and ensures that the best talent will lead the Broncos.
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Mentorship Potential: Should he not land the starting position, Stidham’s experience and knowledge make him an excellent candidate for a mentorship role, particularly for younger players like Nix.
The Future Looks Bright: Stidham's journey is a testament to perseverance and continuous improvement. While his early career was marked by struggles, each step has brought him closer to realizing his potential. Whether as a starting quarterback or a seasoned backup, his role with the Broncos is crucial. His ability to adapt, learn, and perform under pressure will be key as the Broncos aim for a successful season.
In essence, Jarrett Stidham's story is far from over. With his eyes set on the starting job, his competitive spirit, and the experience he brings, he remains a significant figure in the Broncos' roster. Fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching his progress as the season unfolds, eager to see how his journey with Denver continues to evolve.
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