Desmond Ridder Withdraws From Broncos Rookie Minicamp Quarterback Tryouts

Desmond Ridder, a former Las Vegas Raiders quarterback with 18 career starts, has withdrawn from the Denver Broncos rookie minicamp due to a scheduling conflict, leaving the Broncos to adjust their quarterback plans. Ridder's exit removes a potential veteran backup option who could have competed for a depth role behind starter Bo Nix, who led the team to a playoff berth last season. In response, the Broncos have invited Ian Book, a former New Orleans Saints quarterback with limited NFL starting experience, to attend the minicamp as a veteran presence familiar with head coach Sean Payton. Book's NFL tenure includes a single start in 2021 and several brief stints on practice squads across multiple teams. The Broncos will also evaluate rookie Blake Stenstrom, aiming to solidify a reliable quarterback depth chart to support Nix's continued success. With Ridder off the table, Denver's focus shifts to developing backup options capable of sustaining the team's playoff ambitions.