In the highly anticipated preseason opener for the Denver Broncos, quarterback Jarrett Stidham will take the helm while rookie Bo Nix will start in the following game, coach Sean Payton announced on Friday. This decision comes amidst a fierce competition for the coveted starting quarterback position.

Stidham, who started the final two games of the 2023 season after Russell Wilson was benched, has been given the nod by Payton for the preseason opener against the Indianapolis Colts. Payton cited Stidham's experience and familiarity with the team as contributing factors in his selection.

On the other hand, the Broncos' first-round pick from the April draft, Bo Nix, will get his chance to shine against the Green Bay Packers in the second preseason game. Payton expressed excitement in working with the talented rookie, stating that Nix will receive significant playing time to showcase his skills.

To provide Nix with some experience running plays with the starting offensive line, Payton mentioned the possibility of giving him a handful of plays in Phase 1 of the game against the Colts. However, the decision will depend on the workload of the other starters.

Throughout the past 11 practices, Stidham and Nix have been going head-to-head, battling for the starting role. Initially, Zach Wilson was also part of the competition, but he was subsequently moved out, leaving the duo to split the workload evenly with the starters.

Coach Payton made it clear that the starting offense would ideally get between 15 and 18 plays against the Colts. However, he emphasized that the play count would depend on how the game unfolds and the overall progress of the team in training camp.

As for determining the starting quarterback for the regular season opener in Seattle on September 9, Payton acknowledged that the decision would not be made on a fixed timetable. He indicated that the rotation could change multiple times throughout training camp before a final decision is reached.

The joint practice scheduled between the Broncos and the Packers on August 16 at the Broncos' training complex will provide an additional opportunity for evaluation and competition between the quarterbacks.

With Stidham and Nix receiving valuable playing time in these preseason games, the Broncos coaching staff will closely monitor their performances, hoping to identify the standout performer who can lead the team to success in the upcoming season.