The search for the perfect backup quarterback is always on. The Broncos have now picked up an ex-Dallas Cowboys QB for the 2023 season. Ben DiNucci played in the XFL, he was selected by the Seattle Sea Dragons in November 2022 and led them to a 7-3 record in 10 starts, throwing for over 2,600 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions. Prior to his XFL success, DiNucci was picked up by the Cowboys in the 2020 draft, before being cut in 2022.
Broncos head coach Sean Payton brutally teased the recently drafted QB at the rookie camp after he threw a pick-6, about working at Walmart. With the Broncos’ new owner being none other than Greg Penner, the chairman of Walmart, Payton’s quip took on a whole new meaning.
An alternative for Ben DiNucci
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During the Broncos’ rookie minicamp, Ben DiNucci, formerly with the Dallas Cowboys, threw an interception. Broncos head coach Sean Payton, jokingly referring to the team’s owner’s Walmart connection, told DiNucci he could work as a Walmart greeter if football didn’t pan out. Following practice at a press conference, Payton stated- “Unfortunately for Ben DiNucci, it was his first interception and there was more to that interception if you looked at it.” He added “It was good play by Sanders and it was right in front of Greg Penner. I was telling Greg before practice how this Ben DiNucci was doing well.”
#Broncos coach Sean Payton told backup QB Ben DiNucci: 'There’s a Greeting job at Walmart' open for him after he threw a pick-6 at practice 🤣
The Broncos ownership also owns Walmart. pic.twitter.com/hBCdPhYAOi
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) May 16, 2023
Ben DiNucci, 26 yo spent time with the Dallas Cowboys from 2020-2022 before moving to the XFL. During a recent Broncos practice, his pass was intercepted by linebacker Drew Sanders, causing Broncos coach Sean Payton to humorously joke that there was a greeting job at Walmart available for DiNucci. Payton commented, “I told Ben — I said, ‘You know, he owns Walmart’. If it doesn’t work out here, I’m sure there’s a greeting opportunity somewhere at one of his local stores.”
The Broncos’ new owner, Greg Penner, also happens to be the chairman of Walmart. While DiNucci’s chances of playing this year are low, Payton commended his performance and acknowledged the good play by Sanders.
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Russell-Payton dream team
After being sacked by the Cowboys, DiNucci displayed a solid play at the XFL. Now, he’ll have the opportunity to compete with Jarrett Stidham and Jarrett Guarantano for the Broncos’ backup quarterback position.
Meanwhile, Sean Payton became the head coach of the Broncos in February 2023, prompting him and Russell Wilson to begin training together. The Broncos acquired Payton from the New Orleans Saints, known for coaching Drew Brees for 15 seasons and winning a Super Bowl in 2009, Payton is revered as an offensive guru. Notably, Payton expelled Wilson’s personal coaches from the team facility to exert greater influence on the quarterback’s progress. Wilson expressed enthusiasm about working with Payton, whom he hailed as a field “wizard.” How will DiNnucci fit into the new scene at the Broncos and what role will he play.
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