Denver Broncos Quarterback Sam Ehlinger Shines In Preseason Finale Against Saints Proving His Case Despite Depth Chart Competition From Nix

The Denver Broncos walked off the field after their preseason finale with a 28-19 victory over the New Orleans Saints, but one of the biggest takeaways of the night had little to do with the scoreline. Instead, it centered around the performance of quarterback Sam Ehlinger, a player who came into training camp with modest expectations but left the preseason having made a strong case for himself. Denver’s quarterback depth chart may already be headlined by rookie Bo Nix and veteran Jarrett Stidham, but Ehlinger’s showing proved that his presence cannot be ignored. Against New Orleans, Ehlinger displayed poise, composure, and a playmaking edge that caught the attention of his coaches, teammates, and fans alike.

Ehlinger finished the contest completing 22 of his 31 pass attempts for 198 yards and a touchdown, while also adding 25 yards rushing. What stood out most wasn’t just the numbers, but the way he commanded the huddle, extended plays with his athleticism, and delivered the ball in critical situations. For a player on the roster bubble, this performance couldn’t have been timed better. Broncos head coach Sean Payton wasted no time highlighting Ehlinger’s effort after the win. “I thought Sam did a fantastic job,” Payton said. “Some of his gifts are with his feet, his athleticism… there’s a little moxie and leadership to him.” Those words are significant considering the source: Payton has worked with some of the greatest quarterbacks of the modern era, including Drew Brees, and his praise is never handed out lightly.

The quarterback room in Denver has been a point of focus throughout the offseason. First-round draft pick Bo Nix was expected to take the reins sooner rather than later, and Jarrett Stidham’s presence has provided veteran stability. For many, that meant Ehlinger was simply an insurance policy, a camp arm destined to fill out preseason rosters rather than carve out a meaningful role. But if his final preseason outing proved anything, it’s that Ehlinger is not just playing for a spot—he’s competing to be remembered. Even if Denver ultimately rolls with only two quarterbacks on the active roster, the case for Ehlinger as a practice squad candidate has grown considerably.

Nix, who has drawn plenty of attention as Denver’s quarterback of the future, made sure to show respect to his teammate’s efforts. “He’s a great teammate,” Nix said of Ehlinger. “The way he competes, it’s like every day matters to him. That’s the kind of guy you want in the locker room.” This type of endorsement from the presumed QB1 matters, not only because it shows team unity, but because it underscores the intangible qualities Ehlinger brings. Beyond arm strength and athleticism, Ehlinger’s leadership, toughness, and energy have left an impression on his peers.

That sense of intangibles has always been part of Ehlinger’s story. At Texas, he became a symbol of grit and resilience, earning respect through his ability to rise in big moments and lead by example. The NFL is a different level, of course, but those same qualities have translated in Denver. He may not have the pedigree of a first-round pick or the journeyman experience of a seasoned backup, but he has the belief in himself and, increasingly, the backing of those around him.

For the Broncos, Ehlinger’s emergence raises an interesting roster question. NFL teams typically carry two quarterbacks on the 53-man roster, especially under the new emergency quarterback rule that allows a third QB to dress in case of injury. Whether Denver chooses to keep him on the active roster or try to stash him on the practice squad, they’ll have to weigh the risk of another team claiming him. Quarterbacks who flash potential, even in preseason games, rarely go unnoticed around the league. Coaches know how valuable it can be to have a developmental option who has proven his ability to run an offense under live-fire conditions.

Fans watching the finale against the Saints certainly noticed. Social media buzzed with comments about Ehlinger’s command of the offense, his chemistry with receivers, and his knack for making plays when the pocket collapsed. For a fanbase eager for signs of progress and stability at the quarterback position, Ehlinger’s performance felt like a breath of fresh air. While he may not unseat Nix or Stidham in the immediate future, he provided reassurance that Denver’s quarterback depth is stronger than it has been in years.

From a broader perspective, Ehlinger’s story is one of perseverance. Drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in 2021, he experienced the ups and downs of being thrust into difficult situations, starting games in chaotic circumstances, and weathering the challenges of NFL uncertainty. Those experiences hardened him, taught him the importance of preparation, and gave him the perspective needed to thrive when opportunities arise. In Denver, he has used those lessons to show that he can contribute meaningfully, even when expectations were low.

Coach Payton’s comments about Ehlinger’s leadership and moxie hint at another reason why he’s been able to turn heads. Football is not just about athleticism—it’s about presence. When a quarterback steps into the huddle, his teammates must believe in him. That confidence is contagious, and it often makes the difference between a stalled drive and a scoring possession. Against New Orleans, Ehlinger’s calm under pressure and willingness to take charge created that sense of belief.

The Broncos are in the midst of a new chapter. With Sean Payton at the helm and Bo Nix viewed as the future face of the franchise, the team is working to build a sustainable identity. In that context, having a player like Ehlinger who embodies resilience, adaptability, and competitiveness adds to the culture Payton is trying to instill. Even if his role is not as prominent as the starters, his presence carries weight.

The preseason is often dismissed as inconsequential, but for players like Ehlinger, it is everything. It is the stage where reputations are made, opportunities are seized, and futures are determined. His performance against the Saints will not be forgotten when final roster decisions are made, nor will it be overlooked when teams across the league evaluate potential additions. What he proved was not just that he can run an offense, but that he can inspire confidence—a trait that is rare and valuable.

For now, the Broncos will weigh their options. Carrying Ehlinger on the 53-man roster may require difficult sacrifices at other positions, while attempting to sneak him onto the practice squad carries the risk of losing him to another team. Whatever decision is made, one fact is certain: Sam Ehlinger has proven he belongs in the NFL. He has the tools, the leadership, and the determination to make a difference. Whether his path keeps him in Denver or leads him elsewhere, his performance in the preseason finale ensured that his name will stay in conversations.

As Denver looks ahead to the regular season, excitement will naturally focus on Bo Nix’s development and the progress of Sean Payton’s offense. Yet, lingering in the minds of many will be the image of Sam Ehlinger orchestrating drives, making plays with his arm and legs, and earning the respect of his coaches and teammates. It was a reminder that in football, opportunities can change everything, and when preparation meets the moment, even a roster longshot can become a storyline worth following.

For Sam Ehlinger, the future remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: he has left his mark in Denver