Signs continue to point to another season of Trevor Siemian under center.

The latest indication comes via NFL Media's James Palmer, who reported that Siemian has the "upper hand" in the Broncos' impending quarterback competition after speaking with head coach Vance Joseph.

According to Palmer, Joseph believes the former seventh-round pick "played at a higher level than many assume," an extension of Joseph's recent declaration that Siemian didn't get enough credit for 2016.

This is something of a double-down from Palmer, who revealed in December -- prior to Joseph's arrival -- that the club was behind Siemian, not Paxton Lynch, as the long-term QB.

"Talking to people within the building," Palmer said at the time, "the thought process is that even though they picked Paxton Lynch in the first round, Trevor Siemian is in mind to be the guy moving forward for the next couple of seasons."

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In the time since, Lynch sought out a specialist to fix his mechanics, vowing to return stronger in year two, but he hasn't exactly earned the support of his new coach, who admitted he's "not sure" if Lynch is ready to assume the reigns in 2017.

The Broncos like Siemian's demeanor, command of the huddle, and leadership abilities. While he doesn't possesses the physical tools of Lynch, he's a quick learner who's already won over the respect of his teammates -- from Emmanuel Sanders to Von Miller -- which is no small feat.

"Players want to play for him," Joseph told Palmer. "They want to win for him."

Joseph has opened up a down-the-middle battle between Siemian and Lynch for the right to start. To unseat the incumbent, however, Lynch must show significant improvement in his understanding of the offense, taking snaps under center, and adjusting to the speed of the NFL.

“Is he ready? I’m not sure,” Joseph said. “But obviously he’s got great skills. He’s a tall man with a big arm. Is he ready? That’s a tough question. He had two starts last year.”

Siemian, on the mend following January shoulder surgery, is expected to be fully cleared in time for Organized Team Activity (OTA) practices, which start May 25.

Joseph hopes to crown his quarterback by the preseason.

“Whenever it happens, it happens,” he said. “The best guy will play.”

Follow Zack Kelberman on Twitter: @Kelberman247