According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, former Dallas Cowboys quarterback Ben DiNucci has been given a surprise opportunity, signing with the Denver Broncos practice squad ahead of the AFC Championship game. For DiNucci, it is the first chance to join a franchise since the preseason. DiNucci joined the Atlanta Falcons during training camp, but didn't survive the final roster cuts and has been awaiting an opportunity since. One that has now presented itself after Bo Nix's season-ending ankle injury in the Denver Broncos' win over the Buffalo Bills.
This leaves the Broncos starting Jarrett Stidham in the AFC Championship with Texas alum Sam Ehlinger serving as the backup option. DiNucci being signed to the team's practice squad likely signals that the QB will be serving as the non-active emergency option. This is the best case for a veteran who needs a chance to get his foot in the door somewhere without the pressure of actually taking snaps in a meaningful game.
The former Cowboy is best utilized as a third option, an emergency player with experience that you hope never takes the field. This is illustrated by the fact that the quarterback has only appeared in three games in his career despite having been in and out of the league since the 2020 season. While there is a lot of experience in being a part of an NFL roster, there is very little in the quarterback's career that convinces teams he is capable of being a primary backup.
Ex-Cowboys QB Ben DiNucci Given Surprise Chance to Resume Career
Still, this is a huge opportunity for DiNucci to get in the building with head coach Sean Payton and rebuild value. The veteran coach garners plenty of well-deserved respect throughout the league thanks to his past accomplishments. DiNucci has a chance to impress the coach and build on his reputation, giving himself a greater opportunity to continue being viewed as a viable backup option.
DiNucci isn't going to take the field, barring injuries to each of Denver's backups, but he still can impress in practice and in his interactions within the building. The opportunity is enough to prove his career isn't yet over, and there is a chance to build momentum heading into the 2026 season.
The futures of both Ehlinger and Stidham are in question, and open the chance for DiNucci to make a case to be retained as a member of Denver's practice squad and a possible 2026 third option at the position. It is great to see the quarterback's career continue, even if it may appear to be a short-lived 2025 tenure with the Broncos facing a clear uphill battle to make the Super Bowl after the loss of their starting quarterback. An injury that served as an opportunity for the former Cowboy to continue his career.