3 weeks ago
23
Backup quarterback Sam Ehlinger has decided to pass up two roster spots in order to remain a practice squad player with the Denver Broncos in a stunning decision.
According to NFL Insider Jordan Schultz, Ehlinger received 53-man roster spot offers with two unnamed teams.
However, Ehlinger declined both those offers in favor of being the third quarterback on the Broncos' roster.
If he opted for one of those roster spots, he would not be subject to waivers as a vested veteran.
Per Schultz, Ehlinger 'loves the Broncos' QB room with Bo Nix, [second-string QB] Jarrett Stidham + rising star QBs coach Davis Webb, and believes in the team and their bright future.'
However, the opportunity for Ehlinger to see the field for the Broncos appears rare, barring an injury.
Denver Broncos quarterback Sam Ehlinger has opted to be a practice squad player after turning down 53-man roster spots offered two him by a pair of unnamed NFL teams
Ehlinger started three career games for the Indianapolis Colts in the 2022 season
The five-year veteran had previously spent his entire NFL career as a backup on the Indianapolis Colts.
After being picked by Indy with the 218th selection in the sixth-round of the 2021 NFL Draft, Ehlinger would spend most of his career struggling to get playing time.
He appeared in three games in his rookie campaign without recording a single pass, but rushing three times for nine yards.
In 2022, Ehlinger was named the starting quarterback for the remainder of the season after seasoned veterans Matt Ryan and Nick Foles struggled.
Ehlinger ultimately only started two games before head coach Frank Reich was fired. Interim coach Jeff Saturday then restored Ryan to the starting role.
Ehlinger would then start the final game of the Colts' season - losing that one as well. He finished the 2022 season with 64 completions for 573 yards, three touchdowns, and three interceptions.
He has not recorded any statistics in an NFL game since the 2022 season.
