CONTRACT TERMINATION: Denver Broncos Quarterback (QB) Jarrett Stidham Has Terminates His $12 Million Two-year Contract With Broncos — Citing Personal Reasons…

In a surprising turn of events, Denver Broncos quarterback Jarrett Stidham has terminated his two-year, $12 million contract with the team, citing personal reasons. The decision, announced on July 20, 2025, marks a significant shift for the backup quarterback who has been a steady presence in the Broncos’ quarterback room since joining in 2023. This move leaves fans and analysts speculating about Stidham’s future and its impact on the team’s roster as the 2025 NFL season approaches.

Stidham, a 28-year-old Auburn alum, signed the $12 million extension in March 2025, which included $6.99 million guaranteed and a $3 million signing bonus. The deal was designed to keep him as the primary backup to rising star Bo Nix, who led the Broncos to the AFC playoffs in 2024 for the first time since 2015. Stidham’s role as a reliable veteran presence was praised by head coach Sean Payton and Nix himself, who credited Stidham’s mentorship for his successful rookie season. However, Stidham’s decision to walk away from the contract has raised questions about his personal motivations and the Broncos’ next steps.

While Stidham has not publicly detailed the specific personal reasons behind his departure, sources close to the team suggest it may involve family considerations or a desire to pursue new opportunities outside of football. Stidham, married to his college sweetheart Kennedy Brown-Stidham with two children, has always emphasized the importance of family. His decision could reflect a prioritization of personal life over his NFL career, especially given his limited on-field role as a backup. In 2024, Stidham appeared in just three games without recording a pass attempt, underscoring his position behind Nix on the depth chart.

Stidham’s NFL journey began as a fourth-round pick by the New England Patriots in 2019, followed by a stint with the Las Vegas Raiders in 2022. He joined the Broncos in 2023 on a two-year, $10 million deal, starting two games that season with 496 passing yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. His experience and familiarity with Payton’s system made him a valuable asset, but his ambition to become a starting quarterback was evident. In 2024, Stidham competed for the starting role against Nix and Zach Wilson but ultimately settled into the backup position. His recent contract termination could signal a desire to seek a starting opportunity elsewhere or step away from the game entirely.

For the Broncos, Stidham’s exit creates an immediate need at the backup quarterback position. With Nix firmly entrenched as the starter, the team may turn to Zach Wilson, who remains on the roster as the third-string quarterback. Wilson, acquired from the New York Jets, showed promise in the 2024 preseason, potentially positioning him as the new No. 2. Alternatively, the Broncos could explore free agency or the trade market, with names like Sam Ehlinger mentioned as possible emergency options. The team’s front office, led by general manager George Paton, must act swiftly to ensure depth behind Nix, especially with playoff aspirations in 2025.

Financially, Stidham’s termination will impact the Broncos’ salary cap. His 2025 cap hit was set at $4 million, with $6.99 million in dead money if the contract was voided early. This financial hit, while manageable, complicates roster planning as Denver aims to maximize its spending window with Nix on a cost-effective rookie deal. The loss of Stidham’s veteran presence also disrupts the quarterback room’s chemistry, which Payton described as “unique” due to the camaraderie between Stidham, Nix, and Wilson.

As the Broncos prepare for a critical season, Stidham’s departure adds uncertainty to an otherwise ascending team. Fans await further clarity on his personal reasons and whether he will continue his NFL career elsewhere. For now, Denver must regroup and solidify its quarterback depth to maintain momentum in the competitive AFC West.