JUST IN: Broncos new quarterback in, replacing Russell Wilson for the rest of the season.
The Denver Broncos have opted to bench their high-profile starting quarterback, Russell Wilson, and are once again facing uncertainty in the quarterback position. Head coach Sean Payton has expressed a strong preference for Jarrett Stidham, who will take the starting role in the remaining two games of the season. However, there are speculations about whether the Broncos are gearing up to invest heavily in a young quarterback for the 2024 season.
This strategic move is uncharted territory for Sean Payton, who has never prioritized drafting a quarterback early in the NFL.
Despite occasional rumors of the Saints exploring quarterback options in various draft classes towards the end of Drew Brees’s career, the team never took decisive action in that direction.
Considering Sean Payton’s historical tendencies, selecting a quarterback in the first round would be a departure from his usual approach. However, the decision to bench Russell Wilson may prompt the Denver Broncos to explore this option in the 2024 draft. Here’s a four-round mock draft for the Broncos post the quarterback decision:
1. JJ McCarthy, QB, Michigan:
The prospect of the Broncos choosing a quarterback in the first round is a dilemma. While Sean Payton has expressed admiration for USC quarterback Caleb Williams, the availability of the 1st overall pick, possibly from the Chicago Bears, or a trade involving Justin Fields could factor in. In a more realistic scenario, with the Broncos picking in the 10-18 range, quarterbacks like JJ McCarthy, Bo Nix, or Michael Penix could be viable options. While it might not be imperative for the Broncos to commit to a quarterback in the first round, there could be significant value in bringing a young QB into the fold swiftly. McCarthy, with his potential, could be a suitable fit for Sean Payton’s preference of allowing the player to learn before stepping into a starting role.
While JJ McCarthy may need further development in certain aspects of his game as a traditional dropback passer, the Broncos are likely aiming to establish themselves as a run-first team. McCarthy possesses qualities that make him a promising point guard in the NFL, showcasing playmaking traits that align with the team’s envisioned identity.
