The Denver Broncos’ quarterback depth chart features veterans Jarrett Stidham and Sam Ehlinger, but it’s Ian Book—newly added via a rookie minicamp tryout—who shares the deepest connection with head coach Sean Payton.
Book, a former Notre Dame standout, was originally drafted by Payton’s New Orleans Saints in 2021, giving him a familiarity with the coach that could work in his favor as he competes for a roster spot.
Book’s opportunity with the Broncos came after Desmond Ridder backed out of a scheduled veteran tryout. According to 9News’ Mike Klis, Denver responded by inviting Book, who spent time with the Chiefs and Eagles in 2024, to rookie minicamp.
Although he hasn’t thrown a regular-season pass since his lone NFL appearance in 2021—when he went 12-for-20 with 135 yards and two interceptions—Book is getting another shot under a coach who’s long admired him.
Payton has publicly praised Book in the past, once comparing him to his younger self during an appearance on the Dan Patrick Show. He described Book as “scrappy,” “accurate,” and someone who consistently made plays in pressure situations.
“He’s the all-time winningest quarterback in Notre Dame history,” Payton said in 2021. “That’s the function of the position—lead your team to scores and find a way to win games.”
Now reunited in Denver, Payton has the chance to work with Book once again, albeit in a crowded and competitive quarterback room. Rookie Bo Nix, the No. 12 overall pick, enters as the likely starter after a strong first year.
Stidham, who navigated quarterback transitions in 2023 and 2024, remains a solid backup option, while Ehlinger signed a one-year deal this offseason that could make him expendable post-June 1 if the Broncos opt for a different direction.
Book may be facing long odds, but his history with Payton—and his reputation as a smart, tough competitor—gives him a unique edge as he tries to carve out a place in Denver.
