Trevor Siemian won the Denver Broncos' quarterback battle with his steady play.
Broncos coach Vance Joseph named Siemian his starting quarterback at a news conference Monday, saying Siemian was the "clear-cut winner" in his duel with Paxton Lynch.
"Trevor was more consistent on what we asked those guys to do," Joseph said. "Trevor is the guy."
Brandon Stokley, a former Broncos receiver working for 104.3 The Fan in Denver, first reported the decision.
Siemian starting the season under center is the expected result following two preseason games. The incumbent has been much more consistent guiding the Broncos' offense than former first-round pick Lynch.
"I was pleased with both guys, but overall the operation of the entire offense, the decision making, ball placement was more consistent with Trevor -- that's why he won the job," Joseph said. "I met with those guys this morning -- they understood that, we just finished our team meetings so everyone is on the same page. We're all going to support Paxton moving forward. He's a young player, he's got a bright future still and in my opinion we have two quarterbacks. Most teams you can't say that and I firmly believe that."
During the 2017 preseason, Siemian has completed 14-of-18 passing for 144 yards, 8.0 yards per attempt, with one touchdown, zero interceptions at a 118.5 passer rating. Lynch, meanwhile, has struggled to read defenses while going 15 of 22 for 81 yards, 3.7 YPA, zero touchdown passes or interceptions and a 74.2 passer rating.
Throughout the spring and summer, the Broncos gave Lynch every opportunity to swipe the gig. The second-year player, however, continued to look too raw for a team with playoff aspirations to ride into the season. On Saturday night with the starting unit, Lynch didn't attempt to stretch the field, despite owning a big arm. He settled for short throws and was all too happy to tuck and run if his first read wasn't open.
The decision to go with Siemian is a blow for Lynch, who was handpicked by general manager John Elway to be Denver's future quarterback. A raw talent coming out of college, the Broncos hoped he'd take over the reins after sitting most of his rookie season. Alas, learning his second offense in as many seasons appeared too much for the 23-year-old.
Siemian doesn't own the pedigree or physical traits but proved last season he can move the offense when given protection. He doesn't have a cannon, but the seventh-round pick can make all the throws, get through his progression, and isn't afraid to test defensive backs down the seam.
Siemian is not the sexy pick, but it's the one that gives the Broncos the best chance to win out of the gate in 2017.
