Broncos Add a QB Following Bo Nix's Injury, Signing Ben DiNucci to Practice Squad

Published: Monday, January 19, 2026 at 5:02 am

Broncos Bolster Quarterback Depth Amidst Injury, Sign DiNucci to Practice Squad

The Denver Broncos are adding quarterback depth following an injury to Bo Nix, who will be sidelined for the AFC Championship Game. Jarrett Stidham will step in as the starting quarterback, with Sam Ehlinger serving as the primary backup. To further bolster the position, the Broncos have signed Ben DiNucci to the practice squad. DiNucci confirmed the move via social media, expressing his readiness to contribute.

DiNucci, 29, has not played a regular-season snap since his rookie year with the Dallas Cowboys in 2020. He was most recently waived by the Atlanta Falcons during training camp cuts in August. Prior to this, DiNucci spent time in training camp or on practice squads with the Buffalo Bills and New Orleans Saints. He also played a season in the XFL with the Seattle Sea Dragons.

Head coach Sean Payton has affirmed that Stidham will start in the upcoming game. Stidham's last start was in 2023. The Broncos' options for adding quarterbacks are limited due to NFL rules. They cannot sign players who finished the season on an active roster or those on an opposing team's reserve/retired list. This rules out players like Philip Rivers and Derek Carr. The only eligible quarterbacks are those who ended the 2025 regular season as free agents.

Payton has expressed confidence in Stidham, highlighting his accuracy and ability. Payton also noted his familiarity with Stidham's coaching history, including his time with the New England Patriots, who drafted Stidham in 2019. Payton himself considered drafting Stidham during his time with the Saints.

BNN's Perspective:

While the addition of DiNucci provides some insurance, the Broncos' success hinges on Stidham's performance. Payton's confidence in Stidham is encouraging, but the lack of other viable quarterback options underscores the challenges the team faces. The AFC Championship Game will be a true test for Stidham, and the Broncos' playoff hopes rest on his shoulders.

Keywords: Broncos, quarterback, Bo Nix, injury, Ben DiNucci, practice squad, Jarrett Stidham, Sam Ehlinger, Sean Payton, AFC Championship Game, NFL, free agent, playoffs

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