Denver Broncos starting quarterback competition heats up during training camp

At the end of the first week of training camp, the second-year head coach said he was pleased with the quarterback’s play. (KDVR)

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (KDVR) — Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton loves competition. But he also loves clarity.

At the end of the first week of training camp, the second-year head coach said he was pleased with the quarterback’s play.

“The rotation has been pretty consistent and I think that will change a little bit as we get into the next week and a half of training camp,” Payton said after practice on Saturday.

First-round pick Bo Nix understands competition, having experienced it himself in high school and college at Auburn and Oregon.

“You learn a lot there on every play, and that’s my focus right now,” Nix explained as he continued to impress the coaching staff. “From a playbook standpoint and the wording, understanding the operation and the process that goes into it, calling a play and getting to the line of scrimmage and making sure everyone is ready to make the play work.”

Jarrett Stidham finished the 2023 season replacing Russell Wilson. A season later, he feels his understanding of the playbook is a huge improvement for him.

“The NFL is all about competition,” Stidham said. “If you don’t have competition in every room, I think, what are you doing? I think that’s a very healthy thing. I’ve always hung my hat on the fact that I’m a really good teammate, and when I’m called upon to come out here and make plays, it’s to execute and score points.”

For Zach Wilson, it’s all about a second chance with the Broncos. After a turbulent stint with the New York Jets, Wilson is looking for greener pastures.

“I always look forward to practice and when you make that throw and try to correct your mistakes,” Wilson explained. “I love the ball. I can’t wait to approach the next day and do my best. No doubt about it. We’re expecting a serious uptick in things starting Monday when camp resumes.”

The Broncos will take the day off on Sunday, as coaches will spend the day evaluating training videos and planning practices for next week.

Other notes:

• Safety Brandon Jones is expected to miss at least two weeks of training camp with a hamstring injury. Payton wants to play it safe with his injury.
• Safety Caden Sterns made his first return to action during training camp.
• Broncos great Randy Gradishar retired his jersey number at Broncos Park for practice. The Orange Crush linebacker will be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Aug. 3.
• Part of Courtland Sutton’s revised contract includes new incentives: $200,000 for 1,500 or more receiving yards or 10 or more touchdowns and the team makes the playoffs, $500,000 for 500 or more receiving yards and the team ranks better than fifth in the NFL in points scored or average net per passing play.