Jarrett Stidham, a name synonymous with perseverance and resilience in the NFL, has carved out a unique path as a backup quarterback for the Denver Broncos. Known for his competitive spirit, strong work ethic, and supportive role in the quarterback room, Stidham has become a fan favorite and a reliable asset for his team. This article delves into his career, personal life, recent developments, and the questions fans are asking about him across the internet, particularly on platforms like Google and YouTube.
Early Life and College Career
Jarrett Ryan Stidham was born on August 8, 1996, in Corbin, Kentucky, but grew up in Stephenville, Texas, a town known for its rich football culture. His athletic lineage runs deep, with family members excelling in various sports. His cousin, Sawyer Robertson, is also a quarterback, currently playing college football, showcasing the family’s athletic prowess. Stidham’s early exposure to sports and competition shaped his determination to pursue football at the highest level.
High School Stardom
At Stephenville High School, Stidham emerged as a standout quarterback, leading his team to multiple playoff appearances. His high school career was marked by impressive stats and accolades, earning him a reputation as one of Texas’s top prospects. His dual-threat ability combining precise passing with mobility caught the attention of college recruiters nationwide.
College Journey: Baylor and Auburn
Stidham began his college career at Baylor University, where he showed promise as a freshman in 2015. However, after a coaching change and limited playing time, he transferred to Auburn University. At Auburn, Stidham thrived under offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn, becoming the starting quarterback in 2017. He led the Tigers to a 10-4 record that season, showcasing his ability to read defenses and make clutch plays. His decision to return to Auburn for the 2018 season, rather than entering the NFL Draft, reflected his commitment to refining his skills.
Despite a less stellar 2018 season due to offensive line struggles and injuries, Stidham’s college career solidified his reputation as a quarterback with NFL potential. His arm strength, decision-making, and leadership on the field made him a notable prospect for the 2019 NFL Draft.
NFL Career: From Rookie to Reliable Backup
In 2019, the New England Patriots selected Stidham in the fourth round (133rd overall) of the NFL Draft. Joining a franchise led by Tom Brady and coached by Bill Belichick, Stidham was thrust into a high-pressure environment. As a rookie, he served as Brady’s backup, learning the intricacies of the NFL from one of the greatest quarterbacks in history. However, opportunities to play were scarce, and Stidham appeared in only three games in 2020, completing 2 of 4 passes for 14 yards. A leg injury in 2020 further limited his development, as he missed significant practice time.
A Stint with the Las Vegas Raiders
In 2022, Stidham signed with the Las Vegas Raiders, reuniting with former Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. He appeared in five games, starting two, and showed flashes of potential. In those starts, he threw for 656 yards, 4 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions, demonstrating his ability to compete at the NFL level. However, the Raiders’ quarterback situation remained fluid, and Stidham’s role as a backup persisted.
Joining the Denver Broncos
In 2023, Stidham signed with the Denver Broncos, marking a new chapter in his career. Under head coach Sean Payton, known for his quarterback-friendly offensive schemes, Stidham found a system that suited his skill set. He appeared in six games over two seasons (2023-2024), starting two, and completed 40 of 66 passes for 496 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 1 interception. While his on-field contributions were limited, his role in the quarterback room became invaluable, particularly in mentoring rookie Bo Nix.
The 2024 Season and Backup Role
In 2024, Stidham competed for the Broncos’ starting quarterback position against Bo Nix and Zach Wilson. Despite a strong training camp, Nix, a first-round draft pick, was named the starter before the regular season. Stidham expressed disappointment but quickly embraced his role as QB2, emphasizing his commitment to supporting Nix. He played only 14 snaps in the 2024 season, with no pass attempts, but his presence in the film room and practice field was praised by Payton and Nix alike.
Re-Signing with the Broncos for 2025
In March 2025, the Broncos re-signed Stidham to a two-year, $12 million contract, solidifying his role as Nix’s primary backup for the 2025 season. The deal, which includes a $4 million salary cap hit in 2025 and a base salary of $1.99 million (fully guaranteed), reflects the team’s confidence in Stidham’s value both on and off the field. Coach Sean Payton highlighted Stidham’s familiarity with the offense and his positive relationship with Nix as key reasons for the re-signing.
The announcement was met with enthusiasm from fans and teammates, including Nix’s wife, Izzy, who shared a heartfelt reaction on Instagram, celebrating Stidham’s return. The Broncos’ decision to retain Stidham over other free-agent quarterbacks, including Zach Wilson, underscores his importance to the team’s culture and quarterback room dynamics.
Personal Life and Off-Field Impact
Stidham’s personal life is as compelling as his professional journey. He is married to Kennedy Stidham (née Brown), a former soccer player at Baylor University. The couple welcomed their second child, a son named Madden, in March 2024, adding to their family alongside their daughter, Lennon. Kennedy is an active presence on social media, often sharing glimpses of their life, including hosting Thanksgiving dinners for the Broncos’ quarterback room, which included Bo Nix and his wife, Izzy.
Kennedy’s support for her husband is evident in her public interactions. In January 2025, she described 2024 as “the best year” for their family, citing Jarrett’s contributions to the Broncos’ playoff run and the birth of their son. She also hinted at “big plans” for the offseason, though she remained coy about Jarrett’s future team at the time, as he was approaching free agency.
Bonds with Teammates
Stidham’s camaraderie with his teammates, particularly Bo Nix and Zach Wilson, has been a recurring theme in recent news. The Broncos’ quarterback room is described as a “unique room” by Payton, with a strong bond both on and off the field. This was evident in social events, such as Kennedy’s birthday celebration in November 2024, where Zach Wilson’s fiancée, Nicolette Dellanno, shared a heartfelt tribute, and the Thanksgiving gathering hosted by the Stidhams.
Stidham’s mentorship of Nix has been particularly noteworthy. Nix credited Stidham with teaching him about preparation and defensive schemes, calling him a “great guy to lean on.” This mentorship role has solidified Stidham’s value to the Broncos, even as a backup.
Stidham’s Role in the Broncos’ Future
Supporting Bo Nix: As the Broncos look to build on their 10-7 record and playoff appearance in 2024, Stidham’s role as Nix’s backup is critical. Nix, who started all 17 games in 2024, is the cornerstone of Denver’s future, and Stidham’s experience provides a safety net. Payton has emphasized Stidham’s ability to help Nix prepare for games, from breaking down film to discussing defensive strategies.
Potential for Growth: While Stidham’s playing time may remain limited, his two-year contract offers stability and a chance to further develop within Payton’s system. If Nix were to miss time due to injury, Stidham’s familiarity with the offense positions him to step in seamlessly. His performance in limited action 496 yards and 2 touchdowns in two starts suggests he can handle spot starts if needed.
Fan and Media Perception: Some fans have questioned whether the Broncos “overpaid” for Stidham’s services, given his $12 million deal and limited playing time. However, media outlets like Sporting News argue that his role as a reliable backup and mentor justifies the investment, especially in a quarterback-driven league where depth is crucial. Social media sentiment, particularly on X, reflects admiration for Stidham’s professionalism and support for Nix, with posts highlighting his contributions to the team’s culture.
Challenges and Criticisms
Limited Playing Time: One of the primary criticisms Stidham faces is his lack of consistent playing time. Since entering the NFL in 2019, he has appeared in just 14 games across three teams, with only four starts. While he has shown competence in those opportunities, his limited sample size makes it difficult to evaluate his potential as a full-time starter.
Competition and Expectations: Stidham’s career has been marked by competition with high-profile quarterbacks, from Tom Brady in New England to Bo Nix in Denver. While he has handled these situations with grace, his expressed desire to be a starter has led to scrutiny about his ability to seize opportunities. His 2024 training camp battle with Nix and Wilson was competitive, but Nix’s status as a first-round pick made the outcome predictable.
Public Perception: Some fans and analysts view Stidham as a “career backup,” a label he has resisted. His comments in August 2024 about believing he can be an NFL starter sparked debate, with some praising his confidence and others questioning whether he has the tools to lead a franchise. Regardless, his professionalism and team-first attitude have largely silenced critics.
The Broader Impact of Jarrett Stidham
Influence on Young Quarterbacks: Stidham’s role as a mentor extends beyond Nix. His cousin, Sawyer Robertson, is following in his footsteps as a college quarterback, and their shared connection to Baylor University highlights Stidham’s influence on the next generation. His willingness to share knowledge and support teammates sets a positive example for aspiring quarterbacks.
Community and Family Values: Through Kennedy’s social media presence and the couple’s public interactions, Stidham has cultivated an image of a family-oriented athlete. Their Thanksgiving gatherings and Kennedy’s birthday celebrations, attended by teammates, reflect a commitment to building community within the Broncos organization.
Legacy in the NFL: While Stidham may not have the accolades of a starting quarterback, his journey underscores the importance of the backup role in the NFL. His ability to stay prepared, support his team, and perform when called upon exemplifies the qualities of a reliable professional. As the Broncos aim for sustained success in 2025 and beyond, Stidham’s contributions both tangible and intangible will remain integral.
FAQs
Which NFL teams has Jarrett Stidham played for?
Jarrett Stidham was drafted by the New England Patriots in the 4th round of the 2019 NFL Draft. He spent several seasons with the Patriots, serving mostly as a backup quarterback. In 2023, Stidham signed with the Las Vegas Raiders.
What are some highlights of Jarrett Stidham’s college career?
Stidham started his college career at Baylor University but transferred to Auburn University where he became the starting quarterback. He showed solid arm talent and mobility at Auburn, earning attention for his leadership and playmaking ability.
How has Jarrett Stidham performed in the NFL so far?
As a backup quarterback for the Patriots, Stidham appeared in limited games but showed flashes of potential. His NFL experience includes stepping in for injured starters and managing game situations. Stidham’s playing time increased when he started several games in the 2021 season due to team injuries.
Has Jarrett Stidham won any awards or accolades?
While Stidham hasn’t won major NFL awards, he has been praised for his work ethic and perseverance. His college career included strong performances that earned him SEC Player of the Week honors and recognition among SEC quarterbacks.
Where can I watch highlights or interviews of Jarrett Stidham?
You can find Jarrett Stidham highlights, game footage, and interviews on platforms like YouTube, NFL’s official site, and team websites (New England Patriots and Las Vegas Raiders). Popular channels often break down his games and performance analyses.
In Summary
Jarrett Stidham’s career is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and teamwork. From his standout college days at Auburn to his role as a trusted backup for the Denver Broncos, he has navigated the highs and lows of professional football with grace. His recent two-year contract extension, strong relationships with teammates, and supportive family life have endeared him to fans and solidified his place in the NFL.
As fans continue to search for highlights, contract details, and insights into his personal life, Stidham remains a compelling figure whose story is far from over. Whether he ever becomes a starter or continues to excel as a backup, Jarrett Stidham’s impact on and off the field is undeniable.
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