Broncos Bolster Quarterback Depth Amid Nix’s Injury: DiNucci’s Practice‑Squad Signing Signals Strategic Depth Play
The Denver Broncos’ decision to add veteran quarterback Ben DiNucci to their practice squad comes as a direct response to the season‑ending ankle injury that sidelined Bo Nix. With the starting role now up for grabs, Denver’s coaching staff is turning to a mix of familiar faces and untested talent to keep the offense competitive. The move underscores how depth is a strategic asset in a league where injuries can pivot a team’s fortunes overnight.
The Gist
- Bo Nix suffers a broken ankle in the penultimate play of the Divisional Round playoff win.
- Denver signs 29‑year‑old journeyman QB Ben DiNucci to its practice squad.
- DiNucci previously spent time with the Bills, Saints, Falcons, and had a brief stint with the Cowboys in 2020.
- Jarrett Stidham, a former 5‑star prospect, is expected to step into the starting role.
- Sam Ehlinger will back up Stidham and has been with the Broncos since the start of the 2025 offseason.
- Coach Sean Payton has publicly stated that Stidham is “ready” for the starting job.
The Details
When the Broncos clinched a Divisional Round victory, the joy was short‑lived as Bo Nix suffered a season‑ending broken ankle on the penultimate play. The injury abruptly removed Denver’s first‑string quarterback from the roster, forcing the coaching staff to re‑evaluate its backup options.
In a swift move, the Broncos announced that 29‑year‑old Ben DiNucci will be added to the practice squad. DiNucci’s journey through the NFL has been characterized by stints with multiple teams and sporadic playing time. He has been a member of the Denver practice squad in 2023 but never actually played for the Broncos. Over the past several years, DiNucci has also spent time with the Buffalo Bills, New Orleans Saints, and Atlanta Falcons. His only on‑field NFL action dates back to 2020, when he appeared in three games for the Dallas Cowboys, completing 21 of 40 passes for 180 yards, taking four sacks, and losing two fumbles in his sole career start.
With Nix out, the Broncos will rely on Jarrett Stidham, who has not thrown a pass in an NFL game since 2023. The former 5‑star quarterback, drafted by the Broncos in 2022, has earned praise from head coach Sean Payton. Payton remarked, “He’s ready. I said this at the beginning of the season: I feel like I’ve got a [No. 2 quarterback] that’s capable of starting for a number of teams, and I know he feels the same way.” Stidham’s familiarity with the Denver playbook and his prior game experience position him as a logical short‑term solution.
Sam Ehlinger, who has not appeared in an NFL game since 2023 with the Indianapolis Colts, will serve as Stidham’s backup. Ehlinger has been on Denver’s roster since the start of the 2025 offseason, adding further depth behind the starting quarterback position.
Why It Matters
In an NFL landscape where injuries to key players can instantly reshape a team’s trajectory, Denver’s swift action to shore up its quarterback depth highlights several important trends.
- Depth Is an Asset, Not a Liability – By adding a seasoned journeyman like DiNucci to the practice squad, the Broncos demonstrate a proactive approach to roster construction. The ability to bring in experienced quarterbacks who can learn the system quickly provides insurance against future injuries or performance issues.
- Coaching Confidence In Emerging Talent – Sean Payton’s public endorsement of Stidham signals a high level of trust in the player’s readiness. This confidence may influence how the coaching staff deploys Stidham early in the season, potentially accelerating his integration into the offense and allowing the Broncos to test him under competitive conditions.
- Strategic Flexibility for the Roster – With Ehlinger and DiNucci on hand, Denver can experiment with different offensive schemes or line‑up combinations without needing to resort to long‑shot rookie options. This flexibility becomes crucial in a league that rewards teams who can adapt quickly to unforeseen setbacks.
- Long‑Term Implications For Quarterback Development – The presence of multiple quarterbacks with varying experience levels offers a mentorship environment. Stidham can benefit from DiNucci’s veteran insight, while Ehlinger provides a fresh perspective. This dynamic may accelerate the development of the Broncos’ future franchise quarterback.
- Signal to Free‑Agency and Trade Market – By proactively reinforcing its quarterback room, Denver may be sending a clear message to the free‑agency market and trade partners. It shows that the organization is prepared to compete at a high level, potentially attracting talent or making strategic moves in the coming offseason.
Ultimately, the Broncos’ decision to sign Ben DiNucci and the subsequent shift in the quarterback hierarchy emphasize how teams must manage risk and opportunity simultaneously. As the season unfolds, the real test will be whether Stidham can perform consistently under pressure and whether DiNucci can transition from practice squad to active game‑day contributor if the need arises.
In a league where a single injury can alter the complexion of a game, Denver’s approach serves as a blueprint: depth, confidence, and flexibility are the pillars that can sustain a team through adversity and keep championship aspirations alive.
