Broncos' free-agent QB options are limited to players who weren't on rosters or reserve lists

The Denver Broncos will be without quarterback Bo Nix for their upcoming game against the Patriots in the AFC Championship and potentially the Super Bowl. The team is expected to proceed with Jarrett Stidham, who has four career starts. The Broncos cannot pursue quarterbacks like Aaron Rodgers or Philip Rivers due to contractual restrictions, as players with expiring contracts remain under contract until the league year starts in March.

Free-agent options currently available include Taylor Heinicke, Ryan Tannehill, Nick Foles, Robert Griffin III, and Cam Newton. Drew Brees, who last played in 2020 and has a longstanding relationship with Broncos coach Sean Payton, is considered a potential candidate if he is willing to come out of retirement. Stidham, however, has been with the Broncos since Payton's arrival and is familiar with the team's offense, suggesting the team may stick with him for the playoffs.