Is Broncos HC Sean Payton a fan of QB Jarrett Stidham?

When the Denver Broncos opted to release quarterback Russell Wilson and took on the $85 million dead cap that came with it, the widespread belief was that Sean Payton was eyeing a big move at the position. 

But from the head coach’s comments, along with recent insight from ESPN’s Adam Schefter, it appears one name Payton is a very big fan of is already on the roster.

Jarrett Stidham, who started two games last season for the Broncos, is a name worth monitoring as the team prepares for the 2024 NFL Draft and the upcoming season. 

Payton spoke about the position on Monday, as Aric DiLalla of the team’s official website detailed, stating there will be “other candidates” competing with Stidham for the job.

"He's definitely competing to be the starter," Payton said of Stidham from the 2024 NFL Annual Meetings. "I don't think we have a term 'driver's seat' really [of who's ahead in the competition]. He is going to compete for that position. I know he's anxious and excited to do that."

While those comments are noteworthy, Schefter, who joined “The Pat McAfee Show” on Tuesday, sounded fairly optimistic about how much Payton likes Stidham as well.

“He likes Jarrett Stidham ... he likes him, he likes him. He’ll be an option.” Schefter said.