DENVER – Zach Wilson is on the verge of a career revival as Denver Broncos coach Sean Payton announced that Wilson will be one of three quarterbacks on the team’s final 53-player roster. This decision follows Wilson’s standout performance in the Broncos’ 38-12 preseason finale victory over the Arizona Cardinals.
Expressing his gratitude, Wilson said he is thankful for the trade that brought him to Denver, stating, “I’m loving it out here.” The deadline for teams to finalize their rosters is set for 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday.
Wilson joined the Broncos in a trade with the New York Jets prior to the NFL Draft after facing challenges during his three seasons with the Jets. In the game against the Cardinals, Wilson earned the majority of the snaps as the starting quarterback, with rookie Bo Nix sidelined and backup Jarrett Stidham only playing the first possession.
In his performance, Wilson completed 16 of 25 passes for 251 yards, threw two touchdown passes, and added a rushing touchdown. Reflecting on the experience, Wilson noted a growing comfort level within the Broncos’ offensive system. “I can’t think of any games in my career when it feels like we’re getting into a rhythm [like Sunday],” he highlighted. “Even if you go three and out, you feel like you’re going to put something together.”
Initially in a three-way competition for the starting quarterback position, Wilson’s role shifted as Nix and Stidham vied for the starting spot. Ultimately, Payton announced Nix as the starter last week. Despite this change, Wilson believes he has regained his form, and Payton has expressed confidence in Wilson’s potential and talent.
Following Sunday’s game, Payton confirmed that all three quarterbacks—Nix, Stidham, and Wilson—would remain on the roster. He emphasized the importance of their presence, noting, “We feel comfortable with those three quarterbacks.”
Payton praised Wilson’s performance against the Cardinals, stating he made significant throws and demonstrated good decision-making under pressure. Noting Wilson’s improvement during recent practices, Payton remarked that Wilson had been “on a bit of a heater.”
With a record of 12-21 in his 33 games with the Jets, Wilson aims to refine his skill set in Denver, where he has not previously faced issues such as false starts or delay of game penalties. He stressed the importance of playing turnover-free football, something the Broncos accomplished in the final game.
“I feel like I’ve played enough to avoid having those issues,” Wilson said, adding that he wants to support Nix as the season approaches. “We all want to do the best, but we all understand the other person’s side of it, so we all have each other’s back.”
Wilson conveyed excitement for Nix’s opportunity, acknowledging the supportive environment within the quarterback group. He remains committed to contributing positively to the team’s success.