Payton Leaves the Door Open for Broncos Adding Another Quarterback
Sean Payton didn’t dodge the question. He simply acknowledged what Broncos fans are wondering. Are the Broncos done adding quarterbacks?
With Bo Nix still working his way back from a second ankle procedure, Payton made it clear the team hasn’t ruled out bringing in another arm. It wasn’t a headline‑grabber, but it was enough to suggest the team could be looking for another arm.
“That’s a great question,” Payton said when asked about adding another passer. “We’ll discuss that.” A short answer, but a telling one.
Why Payton Is Keeping Options Open
The Broncos currently have Nix, Jarrett Stidham, and Sam Ehlinger on the roster. On paper, that’s enough to get through spring workouts. But Payton isn’t pretending the situation is locked in.
He pointed to the 90‑man offseason roster limit as a reason Denver could bring in another quarterback, even if it’s just for camp reps. He also noted that minicamp doesn’t require more than two quarterbacks, but that could change if a player is expected to start training camp on the PUP list.
E.J. Warner’s Strong Impression
One reason Payton isn’t rushing into a move: E.J. Warner.
The son of Hall of Famer Kurt Warner took part in Denver’s rookie minicamp, and he didn’t look out of place. Payton compared Warner to longtime NFL backup Chase Daniel, a career backup QB who always seemed to be reliant when called upon.
“He’s done a nice job,” Payton said. “He’s entirely different [from his father], but he’s really stood out.”
Warner isn’t pushing for a roster spot yet, but he’s given the Broncos something to think about. If he continues to show poise and quick processing, Denver may feel less urgency to add a veteran.
Why This Matters
Quarterback depth has become a league‑wide storyline, and the Broncos aren’t the only team navigating it. The Rams, for example, just drafted Ty Simpson as Matthew Stafford’s eventual successor, a reminder that even stable quarterback rooms can shift quickly.
Denver’s situation is different. Bo Nix is expected to start, but his recovery timeline still matters. If he’s limited early in camp, Payton may want another arm to keep the offense on schedule. If Warner continues to impress, the team may decide to roll with youth.
