Just hours after the Denver Broncos secured a thrilling 33-30 overtime victory against the Buffalo Bills in the Divisional Round, the celebrations were cut short.
Head coach Sean Payton confirmed recently the news that Denver fans feared: star rookie Bo Nix broke a bone in his ankle during the final minutes of the win. With Nix headed for surgery and out for the remainder of the postseason, the Broncos must now navigate the AFC Championship Game, and potentially a Super Bowl, without the young signal-caller who revitalized their offense.
As the team turns to backup Jarrett Stidham, the question echoing is simple: Are there any free agents left who can save the season?
An emergency signing
While the NFL allows teams to sign free agents during the playoffs, the logistics are daunting. Any new arrival would have less than a week to understand and learn Sean Payton’s offensive system before playing in the most important game of the year.
Payton has publicly backed Stidham, stating, “Stiddy is ready to go… I feel like I’ve got a two who’s capable of starting for a number of teams.” However, with Stidham having not thrown a regular-season pass since 2023, the front office is undoubtedly scouting the agency for insurance.
Broncos QB Bo Nix suffered a season-ending broken bone in his ankle during today’s overtime, victory over Buffalo.
? Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 18, 2026
ON TO THE NEXT. pic.twitter.com/XAuAaEhLzU
? Denver Broncos (@Broncos) January 18, 2026
Potential free agent targets
If Denver decides to bring in a veteran arm for depth or for just in case of emergency scenario, the list of available talent is thin but contains a few recognizable names:
Tannehill is the biggest fish on the market, but there’s a catch. The former Titans and Dolphins starter has been unofficially retired for the better part of two seasons. While he possesses the veteran experience needed for a playoff run, his lack of recent game action and familiarity with the roster makes him a long shot.
Heinicke became a free agent after being released by the Los Angeles Chargers in late 2025. Known for his scrappy playstyle and ability to win games quick, he is perhaps the besst” option available for a team in desperate need of a spark.
ON TO THE NEXT. pic.twitter.com/XAuAaEhLzU
? Denver Broncos (@Broncos) January 18, 2026
Sudfeld has spent years as a reliable system backup in the NFL. While he does not bring the rushing upside of Nix, he is a veteran who understands how to manage a game and protect the football-traits Sean Payton values above all else.
- Dorian Thompson-Robinson & Clayton Tune
If the Broncos are looking for mobile backups who mimic Nix’s ability to escape the pocket, DTR and Clayton Tune are the names to watch. Thompson-Robinson was recently waived by the Eagles and brings high-upside athleticism, though his lack of postseason experience is a significant hurdle.
