The first week of the Denver Broncos’ quarterback competition, featuring Bo Nix, has concluded.
Under Sean Payton’s structured approach, the rotation has been systematic and equitable: Jarrett Stidham worked with the starters on the first day, Bo Nix took over on the second day, and Zach Wilson was up on the third day. On the fourth practice, which took place on Saturday, the rotation resumed with Stidham, though Payton hinted that this might soon change.
“The rotation has been pretty steady, but I anticipate some adjustments in the coming week to week and a half,” Payton said after Saturday’s practice. However, he didn’t elaborate on the specifics of these changes.
This development follows Nix’s most impressive day of training camp. Despite a shaky start, including a troubling interception thrown directly to Levi Wallace, Nix ended practice strong, throwing three touchdowns. Two of these were notable, with successful completions to Greg Dulcich and Javonte Williams.
“You’re going to make mistakes and have setbacks. The key is learning from them,” Payton commented after practice. “We’ll review the film and focus on bouncing back.” As the quarterback competition continues into the second week of training camp, changes in the rotation might be on the horizon.
Meanwhile, offensive linemen Mike McGlinchey and Ben Powers, who were signed after Sean Payton became head coach, have contracts running through 2026 and 2027 respectively. This leaves Garett Bolles in a precarious position since his extension, signed during John Elway’s final year as GM, ends after this season. Although the Broncos did not consider trading Bolles this offseason, the team’s financial commitments elsewhere could lead to a search for a more cost-effective left tackle by 2025.
Bolles, 32 and a 2017 first-round pick, is seeking another extension to stay with Denver for the rest of his career. He has been pushing for a new deal for some time now. A new contract would free up more cap space for the Broncos this year, but it is uncertain if they are inclined to offer Bolles another significant deal.
On the other hand, Patrick Surtain, a key player for the Broncos, is now eligible for an extension. General Manager George Paton has indicated that the team wishes to extend Surtain’s contract beyond his rookie deal, and Surtain confirmed that the organization has shown interest. At 24, Surtain is expected to secure a new deal soon, especially after the Broncos exercised his fifth-year option, keeping him under contract for two more seasons.
With Surtain and Sauce Gardner poised to surpass current cornerback salary ceilings, Surtain’s extension could bridge the gap between the top wide receiver and cornerback salaries. The significant pay increases in recent years have widened the gap between the highest wide receiver contracts, like Justin Jefferson’s $35 million annual deal, and the top cornerback salaries.
