ENGLEWOOD — Broncos coach Sean Payton tried to downplay a significant change in his quarterback rotation.

On Saturday, during a team period at training camp, third-string quarterback Sam Ehlinger took practice snaps with the second-team offense instead of backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham. Is a competition brewing at second-string quarterback behind starter Bo Nix?

“There was nothing remarkable or anything that we discussed in a meeting,” Payton said. “So, maybe they just unfolded where … I wouldn’t make anything into it.”

Payton, however, sang a different tune when asked about training camp position battles earlier this week at Broncos Park.

“There’s a competition at all these spots. The guard position, quarterback position, tight end position. They’re competing for playing time and reps,” Payton said. “That’s why we don’t have a depth chart or anything like that.”

Stidham is entering a contract year ahead of his fourth season with the Broncos. He started in the AFC championship game loss to the Patriots after Nix fractured his ankle. Stidham last started a regular-season game in 2023.

Ehlinger turned down multiple NFL offers to join active rosters last season. He opted to stay on the practice squad in Denver. Payton refuted the idea he gave Ehlinger any sort of promise in return for his Broncos loyalty.

“I think we just sold our program and the offense. There was nothing, we could never promise anything,” Payton said. “I would say this: We saw immediate growth. I think you’d have to ask (Ehlinger), but I think he felt like, ‘I want to continue with this offense and continue where I’m going.’ I think he felt good about it to make that decision.”

Taysom Hill to Denver?

Payton spoke with NFL Network after practice and was asked about the possibility of signing Taysom Hill.

Payton coached Hill — who played NFL quarterback, running back, tight end and wide receiver — previously with the Saints. On Thursday, Hill announced he will not return to New Orleans in 2026. He isn’t retiring, either.

“I saw (Hill) in the offseason,” Payton told NFL Network. “Our team doctor (Karim Meijer) came from New Orleans and Taysom has flown out here a couple of times at the clinic because he was recovering from a knee injury two years ago. So, I think we won’t be the only team (interested). I think there will be a few teams that … spend some time with him, and just kind of see where he’s at.”

Hill has thrown for 2,426 yards passing with 12 touchdowns over his NFL career. He’s rushed for 2,554 yards with 34 touchdowns. He also has 1,034 yards receiving with 11 touchdowns.

Briefly

• The Broncos are off Sunday and return to training camp Monday. Payton said the intensity will increase for a fully padded practice Wednesday.
• Broncos team president Damani Leech is thrilled with the new $175 million training facility. On Saturday, Leech said: “What I think is unique about this building is that it is distinctly Colorado.”
• Leech added that the old facility will be torn down after training camp. It will eventually be replaced by a grassy berm for fan viewing at Broncos Park.
• The Broncos hosted more than 50 player alumni at Saturday’s practice, including Randy Gradishar, Karl Mecklenburg, Brian Griese and Rod Smith.