Broncos predicted to cut ties with $12 million quarterback in 2026 offseason

The Denver Broncos have had a fantastic 2025 campaign, as Sean Payton's squad enters the postseason with a 14-3 regular-season record and obtained the No. 1 seed in the AFC, meaning they have a first-round bye and home-field advantage throughout the postseason.

Quarterback Bo Nix has been a key contributor to Denver's success this year. The second-year signal-caller led a league-leading seven game-winning drives in 2025 and tallied 30 total touchdowns.

With Nix establishing himself as the Broncos' quarterback of the future, the franchise will now need to evaluate the rest of the position group behind Nix, and that could mean finding a new backup for 2026.

Over the Cap lists Denver's backup signal-caller, Jarrett Stidham, as a prime cut candidate this offseason. Stidham signed a two-year, $12 million deal with the Broncos last offseason, keeping him in Denver until 2027.

However, the Broncos would save $4.5 million by moving on from Stidham after the season concludes.

Stidham hasn't seen much game action in the NFL, starting just four games with a 1-3 record while tossing eight touchdowns to eight interceptions.

Despite not seeing the field much, Stidham does play a pivotal role in Denver's quarterback room as a mentor to Nix. The two have formed a close bond over the last two seasons, and Stidham's veteran mentorship has been incredibly valuable to Nix's growth and development.

Though Stidham isn't a high-level backup, he's capable of being a viable starter when the Broncos need him, and his relationship with Nix is also a vital part of the team's quarterback group.

Denver should keep Stidham on the roster and reevaluate his future after the 2026 season when his deal is up.