Sean Payton not stressing over Broncos' QB situation - ESPN

ORLANDO, Fla. — Since releasing quarterback Russell Wilson earlier this month, the Denver Broncos haven't signed a replacement nor improved their draft position to give them a better chance to select their next franchise player at the position. That inactivity might have created a level of concern for the fan base, but speaking Monday at the NFL's annual meeting, coach Sean Payton made clear that the acquisition period is far from complete.

«I would rather the angst be now than in September and October,» Payton said.

Six NFL teams have signed free agent quarterbacks who could serve as 2024 starters, but the Broncos have stood pat with 2023 backup Jarrett Stidham. Payton said «we weren't just going to sign a quarterback to sign one» and clarified that the franchise has reached no conclusions on Stidham's potential as a future starter. He said it's «realistic» to think the Broncos could trade up from their spot at No. 12 in next month's draft and revealed they conducted a private workout with Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy the day after his pro day.

«The draft is one element, and we're kind of in that phase now,» Payton said. «And yet there's still a few possibilities relative to guys that are currently in this league or have played in this league. I think that we've got a pretty good plan in place. We understand what we're doing, and we're going to be smart about it.»

The Broncos signed Stidham last year to serve as Wilson's backup and then started him in their final two games of the regular season. Payton said those two games didn't fundamentally adjust the team's evaluation of him but said he is «definitely competing» to be the 2024 starter.

«I just don't think we're there,» Payton said of knowing Stidham's future.