The Denver Broncos are interested in the top quarterback prospects but may need to trade up to acquire one. The chances of staying put and hoping for a quarterback to fall to them have decreased as well.
The New York Jets could potentially prevent another team from acquiring a quarterback.
“While the Jets need a young quarterback in their pipeline, assuming Zach Wilson is gone, it seems unlikely that they will draft one that high,” ESPN’s Rich Cimini stated. on April 1.
“What they really want is a trade proposal from a team in need of a quarterback, which would allow them to obtain a top-100 pick. Several teams behind them, particularly the Minnesota Vikings (11th), Denver Broncos (12th), and Las Vegas Raiders (13th), might be motivated to move up.”
Denver and Minnesota were two teams being closely watched before the draft.
Both organizations parted ways with Pro Bowl quarterbacks this offseason, although only one did so willingly. They have both been connected to the same highly sought-after prospect at the top of the draft: Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy.
Broncos Set to Meet With NCAA’s Leading Passer Amid Trade Rumors
GettyMichael Penix #QB08 of the Washington Huskies.
It might benefit the Broncos to trade additional assets to the Jets. They might need to move ahead of the Vikings to secure one of the top quarterback prospects. However, this wouldn’t prevent the Vikings from making an even bigger move to climb even higher.
Denver is wisely researching the other quarterback prospects in the class. The uncertainty surrounding their current position only adds to the complexity of their decision.
“Things are heating up for Washington QB Michael Penix Jr: Sources say he had dinner with the #Giants in Seattle after his Pro Day, followed by a private workout with the #Vikings in Seattle,” Bleacher Report’s Jordan Schultz reported on X on April 1. “Penix will have top 30s with the #Broncos, #Falcons, #Raiders and #Commanders, per multiple sources.”
Penix led all college passers with 4,903 yards on 65.4% completion with 36 touchdowns and 11 interceptions last season. He also completed 65.3% of his passes for 4,641 yards, 31 touchdowns, and eight interceptions in 2022.
He finished second in the Heisman voting behind LSU’s Jayden Daniels.
This is the highest finish in the award's history for the university, just one of many times Penix has left his mark on the Washington Huskies record books.
Broncos in Tough Spot Between Vikings and Raiders
GettyHead Coaches Antonio Pierce of the Las Vegas Raiders and Kevin O’Connell of the Minnesota Vikings.
The Vikings pose a clear threat to the Broncos' potential draft plans. They are one spot ahead of the Broncos and have two first-round picks to make their move. However, the presence of AFC West rival Raiders cannot be ignored.
“I don’t think [the Broncos] would be disappointed if Penix was there,’’ former NFL QB Jim Miller said, per 9News’ Mike Klis on April 1. “If they can get up to get Drake Maye, I think that would be a great thing for them but I don’t know if they have the firepower to do it. You can always find a way. If they could pull that off it would be incredible but I just don’t see New England interested in exchanging the No. 3 spot.
“I believe the Raiders, picking at number 13, are also interested in acquiring Penix.’’
Miller praised Penix more than McCarthy.
He also mentioned that Penix's extensive injury history might prevent that. Miller highlighted Penix’s quick release, ability to avoid sacks, and decision-making as strengths. He also mentioned his arm strength and mobility.
The Broncos need to determine if it's a good idea to pick Penix with the 12th pick or to trade for another quarterback.
This decision could prevent the Raiders from selecting him or the Vikings from reconsidering.
