The Denver Broncos find themselves in the quarterback market this offseason, as they prepare to part ways with Russell Wilson after a tumultuous two-year stint.
Despite limited financial flexibility and a lack of a top-10 draft pick, Denver has several avenues to explore in their quest for a new signal-caller.
Here are three quarterbacks with varying price points that the Broncos should consider targeting.
Bo Nix, Oregon Ducks
Denver’s most cost-effective route to upgrade at quarterback is through the 2024 NFL Draft.
With the 12th overall pick, their options are somewhat limited, but Bo Nix might still be available. Nix, although not the flashiest prospect, brings experience, arm talent, and strong decision-making skills to the table. He boasts a college football record with 61 starts, and at 23 years old, he could compete for Denver’s starting job as a rookie.
Despite a lackluster stint at Auburn, Nix reinvented himself during his two seasons with the Oregon Ducks, emerging as a top player in the nation and even becoming a Heisman Trophy finalist. In 2023, he led the nation in passing touchdowns (45) and ranked second in passing yards (4,508) while maintaining an impressive 77.4% completion rate, setting an NCAA single-season record.
Gardner Minshew II, Indianapolis Colts
If Jarrett Stidham’s brief appearances for the Colts have impressed Denver’s coaching staff, they could consider a budget-friendly competitor like Gardner Minshew II. With 37 NFL starts under his belt, Minshew offers experience and unexpected success during his 2023 season with Indianapolis.
Filling in for injured rookie QB Anthony Richardson, Minshew accumulated 3,305 passing yards and 18 total touchdowns in 17 games, including 13 starts.
While his stats may not be jaw-dropping, he helped Indianapolis finish as the 10th-ranked scoring offense (23.3 points per game). Signing Minshew would allow the Broncos to remain competitive in a potentially tougher AFC West next season while retaining the option to draft a quarterback.
Baker Mayfield, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Baker Mayfield’s recent comments about wanting to re-sign with the Buccaneers might change as the offseason unfolds. The departure of former OC Dave Canales, who played a significant role in revitalizing Mayfield’s career, might make him more open to offers from other teams. Denver should make every effort to acquire the former No. 1 overall draft pick.
Mayfield had a remarkable 2022 season with Tampa Bay, leading the team to a division title and its first playoff win since 2021. He posted career-highs in completion rate (64.3%), passing yards (4,044), and touchdowns (28) while limiting interceptions to just 10. Given the substantial contracts awarded to quarterbacks like Derek Carr and Daniel Jones last offseason, acquiring Mayfield could be costly for Denver.
However, the Broncos have ways to create cap space for this move.
In conclusion, the Denver Broncos face a critical decision in their quest for a new quarterback. Whether they pursue a high-profile veteran like Baker Mayfield, opt for a rookie like Bo Nix, or choose an experienced, budget-friendly option like Gardner Minshew II, their choice will shape the team’s future in the highly competitive NFL landscape.
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