The Denver Broncos’ quarterback situation remains uncertain following Desmond Ridder’s unexpected decision to back out of a planned appearance at the team’s rookie minicamp.
Ridder had been anticipated to compete for a veteran backup role, so his withdrawal has caught many in NFL circles off guard and adds complexity to the team’s ongoing evaluation of its quarterback depth.
The former Falcons and Raiders signal-caller is no longer expected to attend the three-day minicamp, reportedly due to a “scheduling conflict,” according to Parker Gabriel of the Denver Post.
“The tryout appears to be off,” wrote Kelberman, casting further doubt on Ridder’s immediate NFL future.
Desmond Ridder, a third-round pick in 2022, has started 18 games over three NFL seasons, showing occasional upside but battling inconsistency. In 2024, he started once for the Raiders and played in six games overall, including a relief appearance in Week 12 against the Broncos—a performance many Denver fans remember as indicative of the team’s continued search for reliable quarterback depth.
Currently, Denver is led by Bo Nix, the former Oregon standout, who impressed during his rookie season. Nix threw for over 3,700 yards and 29 touchdowns, guiding the Broncos to a 10-7 record and their first playoff appearance since 2015. His success has cemented him as the franchise’s future at quarterback, though the backup roles remain unsettled.
Jarrett Stidham and newly acquired Sam Ehlinger are listed behind Nix, and Ridder was seen as a potential upgrade—possibly challenging Ehlinger for the No. 3 spot. However, with Ridder no longer expected to attend rookie minicamp, that opportunity has vanished.
In his absence, undrafted rookie Blake Stenstrom—who played at both Colorado and Princeton—will get a shot to prove himself. As the Broncos continue to build around Nix, securing depth at quarterback remains a key focus in their pursuit of sustained playoff contention.