Broncos’ QB Controversy Continues, But With New Player Involved

It’s probably safe to say you can officially remove Denver Broncos quarterback Kyle Orton from any lingering trade rumors. Orton will be a quarterback for the Broncos in 2011.

Orton, who was placed on the trade block and almost shipped to the Miami Dolphins at the beginning of the season, has solidified himself as the Broncos’ starting quarterback. When Orton wasn’t sent to Miami, it shot down hopes that second year quarterback Tim Tebow would be handed the starting job. A battle in the national spotlight ensued and the debate began on who should be the teams’ starting quarterback. However, Orton’s performance in training camp compared to Tebow’s struggles made Orton the favorite heading into the preseason.

So, that finally closes the door on the quarterback controversy in Denver. Not so fast. A new chapter is unfolding as the performance of Brady Quinn has also overshadowed Tebow. Quinn, who didn’t take a regular season snap all last season, has shown great improvement from a not so stellar showing in last year’s preseason games. After Quinn went 8 of 14 for 120 yards and a touchdown in the Broncos’ preseason loss to the Dallas Cowboys last week, he was promoted to the first backup role in last night’s 24-10 win over the Buffalo Bills, leapfrogging Tebow, who was demoted to third-string. Quinn had another solid performance, going 10 of 16 for 130 yards and a touchdown, plus an interception. Tebow, who played mop-up duty, made only two pass attempts in the game.

It appears, at least for the moment, that fan favorite Tim Tebow has gone from all but being promised the Broncos’ starting quarterback position, to dropping to third-string in a matter of a few weeks. His inability to make consistent professional caliber passes in practice have not impressed the new coaching staff under head coach John Fox, and the quick drop down the depth chart has shown that dissatisfaction. But that doesn’t mean the regime has given up on Tebow, as was shown when legendary Broncos quarterback and current Head of Football Operations for the team John Elway was seen working with Tebow after practices earlier this week.

History has shown that any poor performances by Tim Tebow will be short lived, but for the time being he is the third best quarterback on the Broncos’ roster. The new quarterback debate is to see whether Tebow can regain his backup role, or will Brady Quinn solidly hold the job. Also, if Quinn’s play continues to improve, it’s not entirely impossible that he may take a shot at the starting spot currently held by Orton. Whatever happens, the QB controversy in Denver should only last a couple of more weeks and be decided by Week 1 of the regular season, because this town isn’t big enough for two starting quarterbacks, let alone three.

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