The Denver Broncos are in a rare position of leverage as the NFL trade deadline looms on November 5, holding not one but two backup quarterbacks with starting experience — Jarrett Stidham and Zach Wilson — both of whom could offer immediate value to a team in need of quarterback depth. With rookie Bo Nix securing the starting role, the Broncos may be inclined to move one of their backups to gain draft capital.
The Cleveland Browns, in particular, could make a prime trade partner. They’re scrambling to stay competitive after losing starting quarterback Deshaun Watson to a season-ending Achilles injury. The Browns managed a surprising Week 8 victory over the Ravens with Jameis Winston under center, but doubts linger over their depth at quarterback as they attempt to salvage their season. Winston’s backups, Dorian Thompson-Robinson and Bailey Zappe, leave Cleveland vulnerable should anything happen to their starter, making Stidham or Wilson ideal insurance options.
Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine ranked quarterback as Cleveland’s biggest weakness heading into Week 9, further amplifying the urgency to add experience behind Winston. While Wilson, the former No. 2 overall pick, has struggled with consistency, he brings a high ceiling and starting pedigree. Stidham, a six-year veteran who’s played for the Patriots, Raiders, and Broncos, has proven himself as a steady hand who could step up if needed.
The financials could be the main hurdle. Trading for Stidham would cost Cleveland approximately $2.45 million of his remaining salary, according to Spotrac. Yet with the Browns holding a slim chance at an AFC Wild Card berth, the investment could pay dividends down the stretch.
Nix’s ascension as Denver’s starting QB has made both Stidham and Wilson tradeable assets. Nix showed poise and power in the Broncos’ recent 28-14 win over the Panthers, racking up 284 passing yards, three touchdowns, and a rushing TD. With Nix’s development trending upward, it’s likely Denver could part with one of their backups.
Should the Browns pull the trigger, Stidham or Wilson would not only bolster Cleveland’s quarterback depth but also bring veteran experience to a team suddenly in need of stability as they navigate a challenging stretch of their season.
