Time for Jarrett Stidham to Step Up

Broncos Turn to Veteran Backup for AFC Championship Showdown

Denver, CO — January 22, 2026

In a stunning turn of events, the Denver Broncos are handing the keys to the offense to veteran backup Jarrett Stidham for the AFC Championship Game against the New England Patriots. The 29-year-old quarterback, once drafted by the Patriots themselves, now stands as the biggest obstacle between his former team and a Super Bowl appearance.

Head coach Sean Payton has expressed unwavering confidence in Stidham all week, calling him “my hand-picked guy” and warning opponents to “watch out.” After three seasons observing Stidham daily in practice, Payton believes the quarterback is fully prepared to lead one of the league’s most complete rosters. Payton even stated he expects Stidham to "rip it" against New England's aggressive defense, emphasizing his belief that Stidham is a starting-caliber NFL QB.

Bo Nix’s Heartbreaking Injury

The path to this moment began with heartbreak in the Divisional Round. Rookie sensation Bo Nix, who had engineered a remarkable turnaround season for the Broncos, suffered a fractured right ankle late in overtime of Denver’s thrilling 33-30 victory over the Buffalo Bills.

The injury occurred on a seemingly routine play — a short loss just before Nix’s deep attempt that helped set up the game-winning field goal. Nix limped off the field, and tests later confirmed a fracture requiring season-ending surgery. The procedure, performed in Birmingham, Alabama, "went well," according to Payton. Nix shared his first public comments via Instagram, calling the news "devastating" but expressing full faith in Stidham and the team: "I have no doubt in my mind that Jarrett is going to be ready to play."

The injury ended what had been a breakout campaign for the first-round pick, who threw for over 4,000 yards and carried Denver to the No. 2 seed in the AFC. Stidham entered briefly in relief and helped close out the win, setting the stage for his unexpected promotion.

Stidham’s Career Snapshot

Stidham’s NFL journey has been one of patience and preparation. A fourth-round pick by the Patriots in 2019 out of Auburn, he spent his first four seasons in New England and Las Vegas before joining Denver in 2023.

His career regular-season stats reflect limited starting opportunities but consistent efficiency when called upon:

• Career passing: Approximately 61% completion rate, 2,467 yards, 14 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions across spot starts and relief appearances.

• Notable stretch: Late in the 2023 season, Stidham started Denver’s final two games, completing 67.4% of his passes for 496 yards, 2 touchdowns, and just 1 interception while showing command of the offense.

Analysts have frequently praised his preseason performances, where he has regularly posted some of the highest PFF grades among quarterbacks. Known for his intelligence, accuracy, and pocket presence, Stidham has earned a reputation as one of the league’s premier backups — and now gets his chance to prove he can be more. Broncos players, including tackle Mike McGlinchey and receiver Courtland Sutton, have voiced strong support, with McGlinchey saying Stidham "can ball." Stidham himself reacted to Nix's injury with empathy and excitement, stating he's "just fired up for the opportunity."

Adding to the intrigue, Patriots defensive lineman Milton Williams provided potential bulletin board material, noting Stidham's backup status but admitting limited knowledge of his game.

Patriots Matchup: Familiar Foe Awaits

The AFC Championship pits Stidham against the team that drafted him — adding an intriguing layer of narrative to an already high-stakes game. The Patriots, riding a resurgent defense and balanced attack led by MVP candidate Drake Maye, earned their spot with a road upset in the Divisional Round.

Denver’s elite defense, explosive run game, and playmaking receivers give Stidham a strong supporting cast. Payton’s creative scheme is expected to lean on quick passes and play-action to neutralize New England’s pass rush. In a boost for the Broncos, running back J.K. Dobbins has been activated from Injured Reserve and returned to practice as a limited participant, potentially adding firepower to the backfield after missing time since Week 10.

Bold Predictions: A Vivid Look at Sunday's Showdown

This is how I see it unfolding....

Empower Field at Mile High will be electric — 76,000 fans bundled against the January chill, orange thunder roaring from kickoff as the Broncos defend their home turf in pursuit of the franchise's fourth Super Bowl berth.

Early dominance from the Broncos defense: Patrick Surtain II and the secondary smother the Patriots' receivers, forcing two quick three-and-outs. Zach Allen bursts through the line for an early sack, setting the tone as Denver jumps to a 10-0 lead on a Javonte Williams bulldozing touchdown run — or perhaps a revitalized Dobbins breaking free for extra yards.

Stidham's defining moment: Late third quarter, trailing by three, Stidham faces third-and-8. He escapes the pocket, jukes a linebacker, and dives forward for a 12-yard scramble that converts the first down and sends the stadium into frenzy — the spark that flips momentum.

The dagger: Two plays later, Stidham lofts a perfect deep ball down the sideline. Courtland Sutton rises over double coverage, hauling in a spectacular 45-yard touchdown with one hand outstretched — the play that breaks New England's back and puts Denver ahead for good.

Final seal: With under two minutes left, the Broncos defense delivers again — a leaping interception in the end zone that sends players piling in celebration as confetti begins to swirl.

Predicted final score: Broncos 27, Patriots 20. Stidham finishes 23-of-32 for 295 yards and two touchdowns, proving Payton's faith was well-placed as Denver punches its ticket to the Super Bowl.

Kickoff is set for Sunday at Empower Field at Mile High, where a Super Bowl berth hangs in the balance — and Jarrett Stidham holds the football.