Jarrett Stidham Listed as Broncos' QB1 over Bo Nix, Wilson on Unofficial Depth Chart

Going into the preseason opener on Sunday, Jarrett Stidham appears to have a leg up on Bo Nix to be the Denver Broncos' starting quarterback at this point in training camp.

The Broncos' first unofficial depth chart released on Tuesday has Stidham in the starting spot, with Zach Wilson second and Nix third.

It should be emphasized this is an unofficial depth chart and doesn't necessarily mean anything about where the quarterback battle stands right now.

Nix has practiced only with the first team in the Broncos' last two practices on Saturday and Monday.

Kyle Fredrickson of the Denver Gazette noted Stidham is expected to receive first-team reps on Tuesday.

Even though Wilson is listed second on the depth chart, head coach Sean Payton's practice rotation would seem to indicate he is running third in the competition. Stidham and Nix alternated first-team reps in the first week of camp.

Payton did downplay the idea that anything should be read into that following the Broncos' practice on July 30.

"No news to announce there," Payton told reporters. "I know you're looking for it."

Mike Klis of 9News said Friday (h/t Sean Savage of the New York Post) that Nix has" "done better on the field, performance-wise" than Stidham and Wilson since camp started.

Klis also noted Payton had Nix as the only quarterback participating in move-the-ball drills and walkthroughs, which could be an indication he's in line to win the starting job.

It wouldn't be a surprise if Payton gives Stidham the start for Sunday's preseason game to see how he works with the starters. He could also save Nix for the second preseason contest on Aug. 18 since that might be the game when the starters play their most snaps.

Everything with the quarterback competition could be fluid right now. Nix will eventually take over as QB1 on the depth chart by virtue of being the No. 12 pick in the 2024 NFL draft.

Payton may not give Nix the keys to the offense right away, but it would be a surprise if he doesn't start most of the games during the regular season.

The Broncos will kickoff their preseason schedule on Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium.