Broncos sign new backup quarterback

The Denver Broncos have added a fresh third-string quarterback to their mix, signing former Indianapolis Colts slinger Sam Ehlinger, according to FOX Sports.

Ehlinger, 26, was a sixth-round pick of the Colts in the 2021 NFL Draft out of Texas. With the Longhorns, he was a four-year starter, leading the program to four-straight bowl appearances, including the Sugar Bowl his sophomore year. Once an early favorite to win the a Heisman Trophy that never panned out and Ehlinger went down in the record books instead as one of the best running quarterbacks in Texas football history.

In the pros, Ehlinger has played eight times across three seasons, getting three starts in 2022 and losing all of those games. He has completed 64 of his 101 passes for 573 yards and three touchdowns to three interceptions. He ran 17 times for 87 yards but was sacked 14 times for 87 yards in his short stint leading the Colts.

Ehlinger will join the Broncos quarterback room behind Bo Nix and likely Jarrett Stidham, too, who Denver just re-signed to a two-year deal. Ehlinger takes the role that was just vacated by Zach Wilson, who signed with the Miami Dolphins a few weeks ago. Wilson was a reclamation project after flaming out with the Jets and never played in the regular season in Denver. The potential might not be as high on Ehlinger but he does have some skills and will likely help get the Broncos through training camp and the regular season.

Sources: The #Broncos are signing former #Colts QB Sam Ehlinger to a 1-year deal.

He had multiple offers but chose Denver, seeing the best fit with HC Sean Payton and QBs coach Davis Webb, joining a room with Bo Nix and Jarrett Stidham. pic.twitter.com/8aaQRpKR4p

— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) March 31, 2025