The Denver Broncos kicked off rookie minicamp this weekend. They brought in together their seven new draft picks, fifteen undrafted guys chasing a chance, and over two dozen players just trying to prove they belong. But what really turned heads was the missing of their quarterback. Before things go in a different direction, let’s make it clear for you – we aren’t talking about Sean Payton’s Bo Nix. Instead, we are talking about QB Desmond Ridder, who was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in the third round of the 2022 NFL draft.

Minicamp kicks off tomorrow. The veteran quarterback, Ridder, was considered a notable tryout in this minicamp. But suddenly, things changed. According to reporter Parker Gabriel on X, “Former Atlanta and Vegas QB Desmond Ridder not likely to be at #Broncos rookie minicamp after all. The 2022 third-round pick was slated to be in town as a veteran tryout, but now no longer happening.” But why?

Well, as per reports, the 25-year-old quarterback had a scheduling conflict and couldn’t make it to Denver. That’s a tough break, considering he was expected to be the most talked-about name among the tryout group of Sean Payton.

In his NFL career, Ridder has had stops in Atlanta, Arizona, and Vegas, where he has racked up 21 touchdowns and 4,295 yards. However, he also battled through 14 picks and 18 fumbles along the way.

Now, with Ridder out, the only quarterback trying out this weekend for Sean Payton is Blake Stenstrom. He is a Colorado native who started at CU and finished at Princeton. The Broncos’ rookie minicamp runs Friday through Sunday, and it’s safe to say all eyes will be on the young guns trying to make their mark, as Payton has signed some strong rookies this year.

Sean Payton’s five new members signed with Denver!

The Broncos just locked in a handful of rookies, and things are starting to shape up fast in Sean Payton’s Denver. Que Robinson, their fourth-round pick, officially signed his rookie deal. The Alabama linebacker may have missed four games last season. But he still showed out with seven tackles for loss and four sacks. GM George Paton praised his motor, speed, and the fact that Que’s been grinding behind top-tier talent like Will Anderson and Dallas Turner. He’s expected to make an impact on special teams right away. Right before Robinson, defensive end Sai’vion Jones also inked his deal.

The LSU product, taken 101st overall, brings size, strength, and hustle. At 6’6″, 280 pounds, he’s already known for creating pressure, especially after breaking out with 43 pressures last season. General Manager George Paton loves his upside and believes he fits the Broncos’ mold. Besides him, also locked in Sean Payton’s team is wide receiver Pat Bryant. He led Illinois with nearly 1,000 yards and 10 touchdowns last season and made clutch plays when it counted most. In fact, Payton even compared him to Mike Thomas.

In addition, earlier that day, the Broncos announced punter Jeremy Crawshaw and tight end Caleb Lohner had also signed. Crawshaw, the only punter drafted this year, brings strong stats and consistency. Meanwhile, Lohner is a former college basketball player turned tight end. He caught four passes last season, and all four went for touchdowns. Sean Payton sees a ton of raw potential in him, too. So, with all these signings, Denver’s rookie class is coming together with solid energy and a lot of promise!