The Broncos are expected to opt against selecting a championship-caliber quarterback as the replacement for Russell Wilson.

Despite widespread speculation about the Denver Broncos potentially trading up in the draft to secure a future quarterback and replace Russell Wilson, there’s a possibility that they may not need to make such a move. According to a recent mock draft by ESPN’s Matt Miller, the Broncos could choose to stay put and select Oregon’s Bo Nix with the 12th overall pick.

Miller highlights Nix’s impressive performance at the Senior Bowl, where scouts praised his interviews and practice work. He emphasizes Nix’s accuracy, boasting a nation-leading 77.4% completion rate, and his second-effort mobility that aligns well with coach Sean Payton’s scheme.

It’s noteworthy that Miller now envisions the Broncos passing on J.J. McCarthy, who led Michigan to a national championship last season, in favor of the more pro-ready Nix. In his previous mock draft in December, Miller did not project Nix to go in the first round and even mentioned him as a potential option for the New Orleans Saints on “Day 2” with the 13th overall pick.

Miller acknowledges that selecting Nix at 12th overall might feel early, but he notes that quarterbacks often rise in the draft, and scouts have indicated that Nix could be chosen earlier than expected. In the 2023 season, Nix threw for 4,508 yards and 45 touchdowns with only three interceptions, leading the Ducks to a Fiesta Bowl victory over Liberty. As a fifth-year senior, Nix surpassed his touchdown count for the entire duration of his three seasons at Auburn, where he began his collegiate career.

While Miller maintains his projection of McCarthy going to the Las Vegas Raiders at No. 7 overall in his December mock, he now envisions McCarthy being selected by the Raiders at No. 13 overall in his most recent mock draft.