Sam Ehlinger chose the Broncos’ practice squad over accepting another 53-man roster offer, signaling a strong belief in Denver’s culture and Payton’s development plan. He impressed in the preseason, and his move underscored Denver’s quarterback depth, with Bo Nix, Jarrett Stidham and Zach Wilson cited as teammates in the recent past. Ehlinger’s NFL line—eight games, 573 yards, three TDs and three INTs—frames him as a veteran voice who could factor into the roster’s long-term strategy.