Denver Broncos Poised for Backup Quarterback Battle vs. Atlanta Falcons

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August 13, 2026
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The Denver Broncos are ready to face the Atlanta Falcons in their preseason opener this Friday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Head Coach Sean Payton announced on Wednesday that Bo Nix, the team’s franchise quarterback, will sit this game out. ‘Expecting our starters to play around 15 plays,’ Payton mentioned. ‘Bo won’t play in this game. He’ll play next week.’

Nix underwent offseason surgery on his right ankle following an injury that caused him to miss the AFC Championship Game, a match the Broncos lost. The cautious approach by the team is a sensible move, particularly in the first preseason game.

With Nix not playing, attention shifts to the intense and crucial position battle for backup quarterback. As Nix is scheduled to play more in the following two preseason games, Friday’s game against Atlanta provides a significant opportunity for quarterbacks Jarrett Stidham and Sam Ehlinger to showcase their abilities for the backup position. Payton disclosed after Wednesday’s practice that both Stidham and Ehlinger will each handle a half, with Stidham set to start.

The role of backup quarterback is vital, especially for a contender like Denver. Last year, Nix led the Broncos to a stellar 14-3 record, securing the AFC’s top seed. They seemed destined for their first Super Bowl appearance since 2015 before Nix’s ankle injury in the divisional-round win over Buffalo sidelined him. Stidham replaced him in the AFC Championship Game but struggled, producing a performance of 17 completions on 31 attempts for 133 yards, one touchdown, one interception, and a lost fumble.

Had Nix been healthy, or had Denver possessed a more experienced backup, they may have been victorious in that game, possibly advancing to the Super Bowl.

This season, Denver retains 20 of 22 starters on offense and defense, a lineup capable of repeating last year’s success. However, another Nix injury could spell trouble, underscoring the importance of resolving the backup quarterback position before Week 1.