The Denver Broncos have benched Russell Wilson for the final two games of the regular season, signifying that the team will probably move on from the veteran quarterback this offseason.
So, who will be under center for the Broncos in 2024?
Evan Craig of Heavy.com has listed five potential candidates: Gardner Minshew, Jarrett Stidham (who just replaced Wilson), Jameis Winston, Drew Lock and Jake Browning.
Minshew is the most interesting name on this list, as he has guided the Indianapolis Colts into the AFC playoff picture this season and has a decent track record.
But here is the thing with Minshew: the Colts do not view him as their long-term starter, as he is currently filling in for injured rookie signal-caller Anthony Richardson. He is also on a one-year deal, so he may very well choose to play his football elsewhere next season. If Denver gives Minshew the chance to start, he may very well decide to take his talents to the Mile High City.
Lock and Browning are also intriguing names.
Of course, Lock was originally drafted by the Broncos back in 2019, but he didn’t exactly work out, going 8-13 over 21 starts. However, he has looked solid in a couple of starts with the Seattle Seahawks this year, so perhaps there could be some mutual interest in a reunion going into next season.
Browning has done an admirable job in Joe Burrow’s stead with the Cincinnati Bengals and has probably achieved enough to warrant the opportunity to start somewhere in 2024. Could the Broncos provide Browning with that chance?
Stidham seems to only be a place-filler for Denver for now. It’s hard to imagine the Broncos committing to him long term. As for Winston, he kind of is what he is at this point: a guy who can come in and have a great game every now and then, but he is too turnover-prone and doesn’t seem to have much room for improvement.
Minshew, Lock and Browning are definitely the best names on Craig’s list, but whether or not Denver decides to go in that direction remains to be seen.
The Broncos are 7-8 this season and will take on the Los Angeles Chargers this Sunday.
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