Seahawks Defense: Surpassing ‘Legion of Boom’? Jarrett Stidham Scouting Insights
With Bo Nix sidelined due to an ankle injury, Jarrett Stidham is stepping in as the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos in the AFC Championship Game. This unexpected shift has caused some skepticism regarding the team’s title aspirations. Critics are concerned about Stidham’s experience, having only started four games in his career. His most recent start came during the final week of the 2023 season.
Jarrett Stidham’s Track Record
Despite the doubts, Stidham has displayed enough potential to warrant attention from head coach Sean Payton. Notably, his performance in his first start with the Las Vegas Raiders on January 1, 2023, drew significant acclaim. In that game against the San Francisco 49ers, he completed 23 of 34 passes, amassing 365 yards and three touchdowns, though he also threw two interceptions.
Signing with the Broncos
- Stidham signed with the Broncos for two years at $10 million.
- His contract was renewed for a two-year, $12 million extension last offseason.
- Russell Wilson was released after one season, allowing Stidham to take on a larger role.
Within Payton’s offensive framework, Stidham has shown promise, especially during the end of the 2023 season when he averaged 248 passing yards over two starts. His performance in the preseason was particularly impressive, completing 78.9% of his passes for 376 yards, yielding a remarkable 143.0 passer rating and a 4:0 touchdown-to-interception ratio.
Stidham’s Playing Style
Stidham is a versatile quarterback who can effectively improvise. His ability to throw on the move with precision is a significant asset for the Broncos. Payton is expected to design a game plan that maximizes Stidham’s strengths while mitigating weaknesses, especially in the pocket.
Innovative Offensive Strategies
- Movement-based passing game with bootlegs and sprint-out passes.
- Diverse screen options, including swings and slow screens for running backs.
- Perimeter screens for wide receivers to maintain high completion rates.
These strategies will not only facilitate short, high-percentage throws but also help Stidham gain confidence. By staying on schedule with the offense, Stidham can find his rhythm for mid-range and deep throws. Although challenges lie ahead, Stidham’s unexpected rise could redefine the season for the Broncos, as they aim for a championship run.
