It seems Sean Payton may have his eye on a quarterback for the Denver Broncos, but there’s uncertainty if J.J. McCarthy will still be available when the Broncos pick. Oddsmakers suggest the Broncos won’t be able to draft McCarthy at No. 12, with the Minnesota Vikings now favored to select him at No. 11 after scheduling a private workout with him. Despite beating the Vikings in a game last season, the Broncos have longer odds than two teams drafting ahead of them to land McCarthy, and the New England Patriots are also in the mix, picking before Denver.
Odds to draft J.J McCarthy
Minnesota: – 115
New York Giants: +350
Denver: +430
New England: +900
Las Vegas: +1600
J.J. McCarthy had a successful career at Michigan, fitting the profile of what Broncos coach Sean Payton might be looking for. Standing at 6-foot-3, McCarthy excelled as a pocket passer and led the Wolverines to a national title, although he had a modest performance in the championship game. On the season, McCarthy threw for nearly 3,000 yards, 22 touchdowns, and just four interceptions, with Michigan finishing with a perfect 15-0 record.
The Minnesota Vikings have emerged as a potential destination for McCarthy after losing Kirk Cousins to the Atlanta Falcons and missing out on Sam Darnold, who signed with the Panthers. Darnold could be viewed as a temporary solution, potentially paving the way for McCarthy to become the Vikings’ long-term quarterback.
The Broncos, on the other hand, are in a bit of a quarterback purgatory after a failed stint with Russell Wilson. They are limited in picks and salary and are looking for someone to pair with Jarrett Stidham in the quarterback room. However, due to Wilson’s midseason success, including a win against Minnesota, the Broncos are outside of premium draft position and may miss out on top quarterback prospects like McCarthy.
