Broncos' backup quarterback gets huge vote of confidence from head coach before AFC title game

Terron Armstead joins Jason McIntyre to discuss the matchups between the Broncos and Bills, Bears and 49ers, and Sam Darnold’s oblique injury.

Jarrett Stidham will make his first career playoff start next weekend when the Denver Broncos compete for the AFC Championship and a berth in Super Bowl LX.

Stidham was thrust into the starting role almost immediately after the team’s win over the Buffalo Bills on Saturday night when it was revealed that Bo Nix suffered a fractured ankle and will miss the rest of the playoffs.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Denver Broncos quarterback Jarrett Stidham (8) prior to a game against the Kansas City Chiefs at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on Dec. 25, 2025. (Jay Biggerstaff/Imagn Images)

The veteran quarterback, who at one point was considered to be the heir to the New England Patriots’ starting job once Tom Brady departed for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, received a huge boost of confidence from Broncos head coach Sean Payton.

"It started with our evaluation in New Orleans of him," Payton said when asked why he believed Stidham was ready for the challenge. "He was a target for us in the draft. That doesn’t really mean anything other than we liked this player coming out. I know how he was coached in New England. I know exactly how he was coached in New England. Then I know how [Patriots offensive coordinator Josh] McDaniels felt about him when he brought him from New England to Vegas. Then I know reports on how he played, and then we saw him play real time.

"But ultimately, to answer your question, it’s our three years here. In our three years, watching him day-in and day-out that you guys don’t have access to. He will be ready to go and ready for the moment."

Denver