The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-broncos">Denver Broncos</a> were celebrating their ticket to the AFC Championship Game after defeating the Bills when, surprisingly, they learned that Bo Nix was out for the rest of the season due to an ankle injury.



Suddenly, despite being the No. 1 seed in the conference, the Broncos became big underdogs ahead of the matchup against the New England Patriots. However, Sean Payton showed a shocking confidence in what was to come.



On the road to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a>, Payton assured that Jarrett Stidham was more than capable of taking over the starting quarterback role and that, from his perspective, he could easily be QB1 for many teams in the NFL, all while knowing that Stidham has not thrown a pass in two years.



<h2>Who is Broncos starting QB?</h2>



Jarrett Stidham will be the starting quarterback for the Broncos against the Patriots in the AFC Championship Game. Interestingly, Stidham was selected by New England in the fourth round of the 2019 NFL Draft. In 2022 he was with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/las-vegas-raiders">Las Vegas Raiders</a>, and in 2023 the QB signed with Denver.


 

 


<h2>Who is the backup QB for the Denver Broncos?</h2>



Sam Ehlinger is the backup quarterback for the Denver Broncos. This applies not only to the AFC Championship Game but also to a hypothetical Super Bowl, as <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/bo-nix">Bo Nix</a> will not return.


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Who will be Broncos starting quarterback and backup QB for 2026 AFC Championship game against Patriots?

Broncos lose another star player for 2026 AFC Championship game against Patriots after Bo Nix season-ending injury

Sean Payton issues strong warning to entire NFL about Broncos QB job after Bo Nix injury against Bills

Who will be Broncos starting quarterback and backup QB for 2026 AFC Championship game against Patriots? - Bolavip US

miniaturas

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-broncos">Denver Broncos</a>’ impressive season, which propelled them to the 2026 AFC Championship Game, undoubtedly featured Bo Nix as one of its key stars. However, the injury he suffered last weekend has forced <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sean-payton">Sean Payton</a> to rely on his backup QB moving forward.



After the Broncos’ win over the Bills, it was confirmed that <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/bo-nix">Nix</a> suffered a fracture in one of his ankles. The injury required surgery, and according to insider Adam Schefter on X, the QB will be sidelined for at least 12 weeks.



With this news confirmed, any miraculous theories suggesting that Nix might still be able to play in a potential <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> if his team defeats the Patriots today at Empower Field at Mile High are now dashed.



<h2>Full confidence in Stidham</h2>



Bo Nix’s significant setback left many in the Broncos’ facilities stunned. However, Sean Payton, a seasoned veteran of the league, has full confidence in what <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jarrett-stidham">Jarrett Stidham</a> can bring to the team.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/01/18112030/jarrett-stidham-1920x1080.webp" alt="Jarrett Stidham #8 of the Denver Broncos" class="wp-image-564368"></figure><figcaption>Jarrett Stidham #8 of the Denver Broncos</figcaption></figure>



“I’m not worried about Stiddy in this game,” the experienced head coach Sean Payton told reporters Friday via ESPN.com. “I’m worried about everyone else and how we play. That really is the truth.”


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<h2>One step away from the goal</h2>



The Denver Broncos will face the New England Patriots today, Sunday, January 25, 2026, at Empower Field at Mile High. Kickoff for this AFC Championship thriller is set for 1:00 PM local time (3:00 PM ET), with Colorado’s own <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/whos-singing-the-national-anthem-before-broncos-vs-patriots-2026-afc-championship-game">Nathaniel Rateliff scheduled to perform a powerful rendition of the national anthem</a> just before the action begins.

Broncos HC Sean Payton receives significant injury update on Bo Nix

Broncos HC Sean Payton receives significant injury update on Bo Nix - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-broncos" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Denver Broncos</a> will face the New England Patriots on Sunday. For the 2026 AFC Championship Game, the Colorado-based club has provided Jarrett Stidham with two new weapons to help him in his quest for the title.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jarrett-stidham" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jarrett Stidham</a> has taken over as the Broncos’ starting quarterback following Bo Nix’s injury. Fortunately, Denver is trying to help him feel more comfortable by adding two more weapons to the offense.



On Saturday, the Broncos elevated wide receivers Elijah Moore and Michael Bandy from the practice squad to the active roster. They will add depth to Stidham’s offense at a much-needed moment for the new QB1.



<h2>Who is injured for the Broncos?</h2>



In the latest injury report, the Broncos confirmed that tight end Lucas Krull, linebacker Drew Sanders, running back J.K. Dobbins, and quarterback <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/bo-nix" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bo Nix</a> are out for the AFC Championship Game.



On the questionable list are centers Luke Wattenberg and Alex Forsyth, wide receiver Troy Franklin, and safety JL Skinner. Franklin, Forsyth, and Skinner were limited participants in Saturday’s practice, while Wattenberg was a full participant.



<h2>Who is injured for the Patriots?</h2>


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On Friday, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/patriots-deal-drake-maye-bad-news-as-key-teammate-ruled-out-for-afc-championship-vs-broncos" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Patriots dealt Drake Maye bad news, as a key teammate was ruled out for the AFC Championship Game</a>. Star pass rusher Harold Landry will not participate, a crucial loss for the defense.



Linebacker Marte Mapu and wide receiver Mack Hollins are both listed as questionable. In Hollins’ case, it appears his availability will be a game-time decision against Denver.

Broncos provide Jarrett Stidham with two new wide receivers for AFC Championship Game vs Patriots

Broncos quarterback Bo Nix fires warning to NFL following season-ending injury against Bills

Jarrett Stidham reveals biggest motivation ahead of Broncos AFC Championship Game vs Patriots

Broncos provide Jarrett Stidham with two new wide receivers for AFC Championship Game vs Patriots - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jarrett-stidham" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jarrett Stidham</a> starting season debut has given much to talk about given that it’ll come at the AFC Championship Game vs. New England Patriots. However, the Denver Broncos quarterback is not fearing a thing, and he has revealed his biggest motivation ahead of the game.



“It means a lot, any time you step into a situation like this, I just want to go out there and play the absolute best I can for the guys in this locker room,” Stidham said to the press. “That’s all I care about. It’s great to have the support of the guys around me, and thankfully I’ve got a ton of amazing guys, amazing human beings in the locker room, but also amazing football players.” The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-broncos" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Broncos</a> QB is a team player to the highest of levels.



And there is reason to think the team actually has Stidham’s back. In the end, Sean Payton endorsed him and even a <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/patriots-coach-warns-the-team-about-drake-mayes-counterpart-jarrett-stidham-ahead-of-afc-championship-game-vs-broncos" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Patriots coach warned his own team about Stidham’s ability</a>. So the confidence is high.



<h2>Stidham’s actual success is measured on other stuff</h2>



The way the Broncos can win this game is because of their elite defense. Stidham’s job is to not give the ball away, and try to move the chains a bit to prolong the drives so the defense gets some rest. However, the defense is the best way they win this game.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/01/23122128/pat-surtain-II-1920x1080.webp" alt="Pat Surtain II #2 of the Denver Broncos" class="wp-image-567364"></figure><figcaption>Pat Surtain II #2 of the Denver Broncos</figcaption></figure>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/drake-maye" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Drake Maye</a> has a fumble problem. The Broncos could make damage and they also have a top-tier secondary. If Stidham doesn’t lose the game, the Broncos have a fair chance to win the game. Still, it will be a very hard-fought battle.


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<h2>Sean Payton has to adjust massively</h2>



Sean Payton has designed quite a pass-happy offense for this Broncos team. In fact, Bo Nix had the most pass attempts this <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> season. Things must change with Stidham under center. It wouldn’t be wise to put a guy who hasn’t thrown a pass in two years to throw that much.



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Patriots</a> have a great defense and Stidham shouldn’t be slinging it around 35-40 times. The running game should improve and Stidham’s passes should be short-to-intermediate levels. Hence, Payton must adjust his playbook.

Jarrett Stidham reveals biggest motivation ahead of Broncos AFC Championship Game vs Patriots - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-broncos" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Denver Broncos</a> will host the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game. However, the quarterback duel is not the one any anticipated. Drake Maye looks clearly superior to Jarrett Stidham, but one coach is warning the away team to not get overconfident.



Josh McDaniels is an old fox in this <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> business. The Patriots offensive coordinator has been around the block and he worked with Bill Belichick. During Thursday’s press conference, McDaniels said Stidham is “smart, accurate, great human being.”&nbsp;Then he expanded, “He’ll be ready to go this week, for sure.”



That’s a self-warning to the team. However, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/patriots-receive-strong-backlash-on-mike-vrabel-decision-before-visit-to-broncos" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">that’s not the only warning they’ve received before their game against the Broncos</a>. The fact is that while <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/drake-maye" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Maye</a> is an MVP contender, his postseason play hasn’t been as great, and the Broncos have a top-tier defense.



<h2>Stidham has been praised by everyone recently</h2>



Sean Payton stated that Stidham could be a starter in plenty of teams in this league. Now, McDaniels is also praising him. Even cornerback <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/broncos-set-clear-expectations-for-jarrett-stidham-after-bo-nixs-season-ending-injury" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pat Surtain II said good things about Stidham as well</a>. It’s a lot for a guy who has only four starts in the NFL at this point in his career.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/01/18112030/jarrett-stidham-1920x1080.webp" alt="Jarrett Stidham #8 of the Denver Broncos" class="wp-image-564368"></figure><figcaption>Jarrett Stidham #8 of the Denver Broncos</figcaption></figure>



Stidham has a career record of 1-3, completing 59.4% of his passes for eight touchdowns and eight interceptions. Those are not numbers to wow at, but everyone is taking big swings in building up Stidham’s reputation.


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<h2>The AFC Championship Game is still not bringing credibility to the Pats</h2>



Many of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Patriots</a> doubters are not done yet. One would assume that getting all the way to an AFC Championship Game would calm the claims, but the fact is the fuel has been igniting even more. In the Wild Card Round, the Chargers had basically no offensive line, hence, Patriots doubters said that was the reason they won. In the Divisional Round, CJ Stroud had four interceptions and arguably lost the game for the Texans. Finally, now against the Broncos they are not facing Bo Nix due to injury, hence going against <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jarrett-stidham" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jarrett Stidham</a>.



This all makes the Patriots path too easy to go to the Super Bowl. However, if they do win vs. Denver, they would be 60 minutes away from glory and no one could deny that, no matter what. The Pats are at the verge of positioning themselves as a top-tier franchise once again.

Patriots coach warns the team about Drake Maye’s counterpart, Jarrett Stidham, ahead of AFC Championship Game vs Broncos

Patriots coach warns the team about Drake Maye's counterpart, Jarrett Stidham, ahead of AFC Championship Game vs Broncos - Bolavip US

Jarrett Stidham will take over as QB1 of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-broncos" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Denver Broncos</a> after Bo Nix’s season-ending ankle injury. Now, his teammates have set clear expectations for the backup ahead of the upcoming game against the New England Patriots.



The Broncos lived a bittersweet moment on Saturday. While they defeated the Bills to advance to the AFC Championship Game, they lost <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/bo-nix" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bo Nix</a> in the final moments of the matchup to a tough ankle injury that is set to sideline him for the remainder of the 2026 NFL playoffs.



Denver is now turning the page and focusing on what comes next. In that regard, they will have to rely on <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jarrett-stidham" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jarrett Stidham</a> to guide the offense, and it appears the confidence in the quarterback is strong within the locker room.



<h2>Pat Surtain, Nik Bonitto set clear expectations for Jarrett Stidham</h2>



The Broncos are in the AFC Championship Game for a reason. Even <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/broncos-quarterback-bo-nix-fires-warning-to-nfl-following-season-ending-injury-against-bills" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bo Nix, despite suffering a season-ending injury, has sent a warning to the rest of the NFL</a> about his team, and the rest of the roster stands behind those words.



Pat Surtain II, the star cornerback and team captain, believes the Broncos’ season is far from over despite Nix’s injury. Surtain has expressed strong faith in Jarrett Stidham and emphasized that the defense will step up to support him in this crucial matchup.



“Honestly, bro, he’s got a lot of confidence to him,” Surtain said about Stidham on the Closed on Sunday podcast. “Before Bo (Nix) got hurt, he was on the scout team going against the first-team defense, and he was making some crazy throws during practice. I think he’s prepared for the moment. He’s a proven guy in this league. He’s got everybody behind him. People forget he has the experience of playing with Tom Brady in New England.”


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Nik Bonitto, a finalist for Defensive Player of the Year, echoed Surtain’s confidence. The elite pass rusher believes “Stiddy” has what it takes to lead the offense and help take the Broncos to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Super Bowl</a> LX.



“We’ve got all the confidence in ‘Stiddy,’” Bonitto said about Stidham stepping up as QB1. “I know the offense will keep it rolling. And, you know, it’s on us on the defense to help him out.”



<h2>How many Super Bowls have the Broncos played?</h2>



The Broncos are close to making history. They could become the outright second team with the most Super Bowl appearances, as they are currently tied for second with the Steelers, Cowboys, and 49ers at eight appearances each.



Denver has won three Super Bowls and lost five. If they reach Super Bowl LX and win, they would tie the Chiefs, Packers, and Giants with four Vince Lombardi Trophies.

Broncos set clear expectations for Jarrett Stidham after Bo Nix’s season-ending injury

Broncos put Patriots on notice with key weapon’s return to help Jarrett Stidham

Pat Surtain II opens up on Broncos’ win over Bills amid Bo Nix’s season-ending injury

Broncos set clear expectations for Jarrett Stidham after Bo Nix's season-ending injury - Bolavip US

Jarrett Stidham explained how he found out about Bo Nix’s injury and the starting quarterback’s reaction after the game between the Denver Broncos and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/buffalo-bills">Buffalo Bills</a>. No one expected it to happen in the middle of the celebration after securing a spot in the AFC Championship Game.



“When we had that last drive of the game, Bo comes off the sideline and you could tell he was in some sort of pain, but, we didn’t really know. Obviously, we were all excited that we’re going to the AFC Championship Game. Then, we get back to the locker room, we didn’t really find out until the X-rays came back. It was just devastating for him. My heart goes out to him and everything that he means to this team. We wouldn’t be in this position without Bo. We want to make him proud.”



Now, the Broncos will look to reach the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> with Stidham at the helm against one of the best defenses in the NFL. In addition, Drake Maye showed throughout the entire season that he is a very strong candidate to be named MVP.



<h2>Broncos lose Bo Nix after season ending injury</h2>



Bo Nix suffered an ankle injury that required surgery. As a result, the star quarterback will not be able to return in the playoffs to help the Denver Broncos. This has caused all the attention to be focused on Jarrett Stidham.


 

 


“This is not about myself. Obviously, my thoughts and prayers have been with Bo. It’s crushing because he’s one of my best friends. I probably spend more time with him than his wife does right now. That’s just the nature of the business that we’re in. I see Bo more than I see my kids.”



For Stidham, it was very sad to see one of his close friends watch his dream of competing for a championship on the field get crushed. “You spend so much time with someone. You see how hard he works and how good of a teammate he is. And then that happens and you just feel crushed for him and everything.”


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Broncos quarterback Bo Nix reaction after season ending injury in 2026 NFL playoffs against Bills is explained by Jarred Stidham

Broncos quarterback Jarred Stidham sends clear message to NFL after Bo Nix season ending injury against Bills in 2026 playoffs

Broncos quarterback Bo Nix reaction after season ending injury in 2026 NFL playoffs against Bills is explained by Jarred Stidham - Bolavip US

Jarrett Stidham stated that he is ready for the huge responsibility of pursuing a <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> berth when the Denver Broncos face the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game. The quarterback affirmed that he is not intimidated by the moment or the big stage.



Stidham is ready to silence all the NFL doubters. “I’m just fired up for the opportunity for these guys. At the end of the day, it’s still football. That’s how I view it. I’m not treating my preparation any differently. I’m just going to go out there and play and be myself. I’m not going to try to be somebody that I’m not. I know how I can play. We all just have to play within ourselves.”



Bo Nix suffered a devastating ankle injury in the Divisional Round against Josh Allen and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/buffalo-bills">Buffalo Bills</a>. That’s why Stidham will get the opportunity of a lifetime, with the full support of his head coach Sean Payton, who has said he isn’t worried because he sees his backup QB at a starter level in the NFL.



<h2>Broncos backup QB after Bo Nix’s injury</h2>



Jarrett Stidham will have a full week of preparation for the huge challenge of replacing Bo Nix. He is only the second quarterback in NFL history whose first start in a season comes in a Conference Championship Game. The other was Roger Staubach with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dallas-cowboys">Dallas Cowboys</a> in the 1972 season.


 

 


“Look, I think every week going back to when I was backing up Russell Wilson, I’ve always prepared the same every single week like I am the starter. Just hasn’t obviously been that way minus two weeks. So, my preparation hasn’t changed one bit. That’s just kind of how I view it.”



The Broncos had a great season with a 14-3 record, winning the AFC West over the Chargers and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kansas-city-chiefs">Kansas City Chiefs</a>. Now, as the No. 1 seed, they will have the advantage of hosting the AFC Championship Game, but with a backup at the helm. A real uphill battle.


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Broncos sign familiar QB behind Jarred Stidham after Bo Nix’s injury

Broncos quarterback Jarred Stidham sends clear message to NFL after Bo Nix season ending injury against Bills in 2026 playoffs - Bolavip US

Sean Payton once again warned the NFL that, despite Bo Nix being out for the rest of the season with an ankle injury, backup quarterback Jarred Stidham is capable of taking them to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> with a victory over the Patriots in the AFC Championship Game.



“He’s got this calm demeanor that I think suits him well. He’s played in big games in college football. I said this at the start of the season, I felt like our two was inside the best 32. I think everyone feels that way, but that’s why that signing was important. You don’t know when it’s happening, but I’m glad it happened. That acquisition.”



Nix was injured during overtime in the game against the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/buffalo-bills">Buffalo Bills</a>. Although at first there were no signs of a problem, Payton confirmed after the victory in Denver that Bo needed surgery.



<h2>Who will be starting quarterback for Broncos vs Patriots?</h2>



Jarrett Stidham will be the starting quarterback for the Broncos against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game. In recent days, Sean Payton has spoken highly of him, even though he hasn’t taken a snap in nearly two years.


 

 


<h2>Are the Broncos underdogs vs Patriots in AFC Championship Game?</h2>



Yes. The Broncos are 5.5-point underdogs before facing the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots">New England Patriots</a> in the AFC Championship Game. Bo Nix’s injury has caused an impressive seven-point swing, making Drake Maye’s team a clear favorite.


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Sean Payton issues strong warning to entire NFL about Broncos QB job after Bo Nix injury against Bills - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-broncos">Denver Broncos</a> are still acclimating to the shock after losing Bo Nix for the rest of the NFL season. However, the team is rallying behind <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/JARRETT-stidham">Jarrett Stidham</a> for the AFC Championship showdown against the New England Patriots. In that regard, the quarterback can be excited about the potential return of an offensive star.



J.K. Dobbins saw his impressive season with the Broncos come to an end after sustaining a foot injury. However, against all odds, the dynamic tailback has been activated off Injured Reserve (IR) and could make his return on Championship Sunday of the 2025 NFL season. He last played in Week 10, when Denver defeated the Las Vegas Raiders, 10–7. Now, Dobbins could return to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> action 80 days after his last appearance.



Dobbins participated in Denver’s Wednesday practice ahead of the AFC title game on Sunday at Empower Field at Mile High. Though nothing comes close to filling the void left by Nix’s absence, Dobbins’ potential return could help ease the pressure on Stidham. Moreover, it gives Mike Vrabel and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots">Patriots</a> another thing to worry about going into the game.



<h2>Limited participant</h2>



Though being back on the practice field is great news for Dobbins and the Broncos, the 27-year-old talent out of the Ohio State University was listed as a limited participant. That means he is still not healthy enough to fully participate. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/01/21192057/jk-dobbins-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-566646"></figure><figcaption>J.K. Dobbins #27 of the Denver Broncos</figcaption></figure>



If his status doesn’t change heading into Sunday, then the odds won’t be on his side to play against New England. At the very least, not to be sent into the field consistently. For the Broncos, there isn’t much upside to using an active roster spot on a player if he can’t be trusted to go at any moment of the game. Even if that player is someone like Dobbins, who elevates Denver’s backfield to another level when healthy. 


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Unfortunately for Dobbins, injuries have been a common theme throughout his career. Availability is the best ability and it’s the one that leaves Dobbins out of the conversation for the top running backs in the league.



<h2>Payton warns the Pats</h2>



Brady’s successor, the Auburn product (a Baylor transfer), will get a chance to cap off a full-circle storyline. The Broncos are different with Stidham as QB1—that’s undeniable—but head coach Sean Payton has no reason to believe that’s necessarily a bad thing.



“[Stidham is] going to rip it and that will be our approach,” Payton said, warning the Patriots not to take Stidham nor these Broncos for granted. In the NFL Playoffs, anything can happen. Improbable heroes and underdog stories have occurred before. None quite like Stidham’s, though, but that might be just the perfect motivation. 



<h2>The tale of the game</h2>



When the Broncos and Patriots collide, two suffocating defenses will clash, while an MVP favorite will go head to head with a veteran backup who was once in his shoes. It may not be the flashiest of matchups, but it sure has a lot of emotion behind it. 



Denver and New England meet in the AFC Championship Game. Both franchises have been here before, but the young rosters on each side have not. This game will be unlike any other—it will be the biggest of their careers, with only the winner moving on to an even bigger stage.


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Broncos put Patriots on notice with key weapon’s return to help Jarrett Stidham - Bolavip US

Sean Payton and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-broncos">Denver Broncos</a> have signed a new quarterback following Bo Nix’s ankle injury. According to a report by Adam Schefter, although Jarred Stidham will be the starter in the AFC Championship Game, they will bring in another name at the position.



“Denver Broncos are signing veteran quarterback Ben DiNucci to their practice squad, per source. He rejoins the team he played for two seasons ago.” He joins Sam Ehlinger, who is the other quarterback on the roster.



The Broncos seemed like favorites to reach the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> after defeating the Buffalo Bills in the divisional round, but Nix’s injury has changed all of Payton and his staff’s plans.



<h2>Who is Broncos starting quarterback?</h2>



Jarred Stidham will be the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos in the AFC Championship Game. Bo Nix fractured his right ankle in the victory over the Bills and is out for the rest of the season.


 

 


<h2>Who is Broncos backup QB?</h2>



Sam Ehlinger would be the backup quarterback for the Broncos given the current situation with Nix. However, the arrival of DiNucci is clearly to have another QB in case of emergency.


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Jarrett Stidham is poised to start for the Denver Broncos in the AFC Championship game. This is because unfortunately <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/bo-nix" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bo Nix</a> fractured his ankle. However, the backup is not intimidated by the whole situation.



“I have no doubts that I’m a starting-caliber quarterback in this league,” Stidham said back in 2024. That is the kind of confidence that will make the AFC Championship game a scenario to seize, not to get intimidated by.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/sean-payton-issues-strong-warning-about-broncos-qb-job-with-bo-nix-injured" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sean Payton also warned the rest of the NFL on Stidham’s potential to lead the team</a>. Hence, while not having Nix is a setback, the team is locked and ready to roll with Stidham, and it also seems like the quarterback is ready to go too.



<h2>Stidham needs help from the run game</h2>



The running game must be effective for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jarrett-stidham" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stidham</a> to thrive. If not, he will be compromised. However, RJ Harvey only had 540 rushing yards this season. While he showed flashes of talent, the fact is he averaged 3.7 yards per carry. If he is not able to establish a running game, Stidham might need to risk more than what the team is willing him to do.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/13110311/rj-harvey-1920x1080.webp" alt="RJ Harvey #12 of the Denver Broncos" class="wp-image-525922"></figure><figcaption>RJ Harvey #12 of the Denver Broncos</figcaption></figure>



There is also the fact that the playcall must change. Bo Nix led the NFL in pass attempts this season. So, unless <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sean-payton" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Payton</a> puts his money where his mouth is and lets Stidham rip it, the head coach must adjust and go into a more run-oriented gameplan.


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<h2>Stidham will be defying odds</h2>



According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, Jarrett Stidham will be the second QB to make his first start of the season in a Conference Championship Game. The other was Roger Staubach, and he was blown out 26-3 by Washington. Hence, Stidham is backed against a wall here.



Also, Stidham has only four career starts. This is the fewest number by any QB entering a Conference Championship start in NFL history. The fact that the Broncos rely on someone with so little <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> experience, but at the same time watch how both the QB and HC have insane confidence makes this a hugely intriguing situation.

Jarrett Stidham’s warning to rest of the NFL resurfaces after Broncos lose Bo Nix to injury

Jarrett Stidham's warning to rest of the NFL resurfaces after Broncos lose Bo Nix to injury - Bolavip US

The Denver Broncos secured a long-awaited return to the AFC Championship Game in 2026, but their Divisional Round win over the Buffalo Bills came at a cost: <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/what-happened-to-bo-nix-and-who-is-broncos-backup-qb-on-the-depth-chart-for-2026-nfl-playoffs">Bo Nix got injured, leaving backup quarterback</a> Jarrett Stidham as the next man up.



Originally moving to the Mile High City on a two-year, $10 million deal to be Russell Wilson’s backup in 2023, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jarrett-stidham">Stidham</a> remained a backup when the Broncos drafted Nix in 2024 but still earned an extension in 2025.



Stidham is currently on a two-year, $12 million contract with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-broncos">Broncos</a>, seeing him hold an average annual salary of $6 million in a deal that includes almost $7 million guaranteed as well as a $3 million signing bonus.



Nix, on the other hand, is still on his rookie contract, finishing the second season of a four-year, $18.6 million deal signed after being selected by Denver out of Oregon with the No. 12 overall pick in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/01/18112441/bo-nix-and-jarrett-stidham-1920x1080.webp" alt="Bo Nix (left) and Jarrett Stidham walking into the field." class="wp-image-564370"></figure><figcaption>Bo Nix (left) and Jarrett Stidham walking into the field.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Comparing Nix and Stidham’s playing time in Denver</h2>



Even though their contracts may not look that different since <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/bo-nix">Nix</a> is just getting started as a pro, the playing time each quarterback has seen in the last two seasons does show a significant contrast.


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While Nix has started all 17 regular season games for the Broncos both in 2024 and 2025, in addition to two playoff appearances in total, Stidham only has four appearances combined with no pass attempts in the last two seasons.



Stidham’s lone snap in 2025 was a kneeldown to finish a game in October. His last pass during a regular-season game came in 2023, when he started the final two games of the campaign after the Broncos decided to bench Wilson.



Even so, Stidham has all the confidence he needs from his head coach, with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/sean-payton-issues-strong-warning-about-broncos-qb-job-with-bo-nix-injured">Sean Payton warning the rest of the league that the Broncos QB job</a> is in safe hands. To be fair, Stidham has been in the NFL for a while now.



<h2>Stidham’s NFL stats</h2>



The 29-year-old, however, has seen little action in seven years as a pro. After three years with no starts on the New England Patriots, Stidham’s first NFL start came late in 2022 when the Las Vegas Raiders benched Derek Carr.



Overall, his record as a starter in the NFL is 1-3, having completed 117 of 197 passes for 1,422 yards for eight touchdowns and as many interceptions, in addition to 37 carries for 101 yards. On the flip side, Stidham was sacked 19 times and had four fumbles, including one for loss.



The Broncos don’t seem to have much of an option but to rely on Stidham though, and it might be his chance to prove why he’s been part of Payton’s roster all these years. With a Super Bowl appearance just one win away, this could be the biggest story of the 2026 NFL playoffs.

Jarrett Stidham’s contract: How much does the Broncos backup QB make compared to Bo Nix?

Jarrett Stidham's contract: How much does the Broncos backup QB make compared to Bo Nix? - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-broncos" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Denver Broncos</a> won an OT thriller against the Buffalo Bills in the Divisional Round. What otherwise would be an incredible moment was then absolutely struck by disaster as Sean Payton announced quarterback <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/bo-nix">Bo Nix</a> fractured his ankle and is out of the NFL Playoffs. However, the head coach is still confident.



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/what-happened-to-bo-nix-and-who-is-broncos-backup-qb-on-the-depth-chart-for-2026-nfl-playoffs">Broncos QB depth chart took a hit without Nix</a> but Payton isn’t accepting defeat just yet. “In fairness to what you’ve seen, which is very limited, he’s ready. He’s ready,” Payton said about Jarrett Stidham. “I’ve said this at the beginning of the season, I feel like I have a [No.] 2 [quarterback] that’s capable of starting for a handful of, a number of teams. I know he feels the same way. So watch out. Just watch.”



Payton said at the beginning of the year that he thought he had a Super Bowl roster and they are one game away. Also, Payton really trusts in his backup so much that <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/jarrett-stidhams-contract-how-much-does-the-broncos-backup-qb-make-compared-to-bo-nix">Stidham’s contract</a> makes him one of the highest-paid QB2s in the NFL, bagging $6 million a year.



<h2>Is Stidham capable of guiding the team?</h2>



Stidham hasn’t thrown a pass since Russell Wilson was on the Broncos. That’s two years ago. However, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sean-payton" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Payton</a> does think Stidham is good. Not only did Payton say Stidham could be the starter for a handful of teams, he also then said, “And listen, ‘Stiddy’ is ready, and we’ll be ready for the next challenge.” 



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">The play Bo Nix supposedly broke his RIGHT ankle on. The defender didn’t make any contact with the right leg or ankle. Non-contact broken ankle? <a href="https://t.co/w7JJ52TrmX">pic.twitter.com/w7JJ52TrmX</a>— Ethan Culver (@ethanlculver) <a href="https://twitter.com/ethanlculver/status/2012741040986304825?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2026</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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It’s not the first time <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/broncos-provide-crucial-update-to-bo-nix-on-two-key-teammates-ahead-of-2026-nfl-playoffs">the Broncos have had to provide crucial updates on key players</a>. However, this is by far and away the most important one given the fact that it’s on the quarterback position. The Broncos will host the AFC Championship game, but even with that, it will be an upside hill.


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<h2>Broncos will have to revive the running game</h2>



With <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jarrett-stidham">Stidham</a> under center, the Broncos must feel like they need to run the ball rather than to make their quarterback throw it 35 times. Howeves, since the middle of December, the Broncos have ran for more than 116 yards just once.



The Bills had one of the most vulnerable run defenses in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a>, and the Broncos only ran 70 yards on them, averaging just 3.1 yards per carry. Now, Payton must look heavily into reviving that part of the offense to not put pressure on Stidham.

Sean Payton issues strong warning about Broncos QB job with Bo Nix injured

Sean Payton issues strong warning about Broncos QB job with Bo Nix injured - Bolavip US

For the first time in a while, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/nfl-teams-ranked-by-fan-support-on-social-media" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Broncos</a> were hopeful about their quarterback when the team traded for Russell Wilson last year. However, it’s safe to say his first season in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/Every-NFL-stadium-ranked-from-worst-to-first-20200514-0001.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mile High City</a> left a lot to be desired.
Denver hopes to turn this situation around and that’s why they hired <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/sports/25-highest-paid-coaches-in-american-sports-20211215-0031.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sean Payton</a>. Apart from leading the New Orleans Saints to their first ever <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/25-Legendary-NFL-Super-Bowl-MVPs--20230126-0009.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Super Bowl</a> triumph, he proved to get the most out of his quarterbacks.
After all, the Broncos have already given Wilson a long-term contract, so they need to make the financial effort worth it. While Payton knows this will be an important task, he also believes JarrettStidham has the potential to become a starter.
<h2>Sean Payton believes Broncos’ backup QB Jarrett Stidham can become an NFL starter</h2>
“I think he’s young, but I think he’s someone that we had a good grade on coming out,” Payton said, via ProFootballTalk. “We like the player. I think he played well in the two starts he had this year. If you study closely the San Francisco game, he’s smart at the line of scrimmage.
“There were a handful of No. 2s that I had worked with or we felt comfortable with, but in this case I think it’s a No. 2 that his arrow is moving in a direction where we think he can become an NFL starter. So the evaluation was pretty crystal clear for all of us. I think he’s going to be someone who’s great in the room. He’s smart. So quietly that was an important signing for us.”
The Broncos originally signed Stidham to backup Wilson, but his contract runs through 2024 as well. Stidham has already benched Derek Carr in Las Vegas late last year, so he knows what it’slike to win the starting job.
 
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