The Denver Broncos announced their intention to release starting quarterback Russell Wilson from his contract on Monday afternoon. Wilson's departure will create an unprecedented $85 million in dead cap charges spread out across the next two seasons. That number is prohibitive to the Broncos pursuing another expensive quarterback via free agency or trade. The Broncos must acquire their next quarterback through the 2024 NFL Draft.
General manager George Paton currently owns the 12th overall selection. Denver will likely target a signal-caller with their first-round pick, either at No. 12 or through a trade-up. Mid and late-round options offer an alternative solution.
With that in mind, we've identified one early, middle, and late-round quarterback that should be on Denver's radar.
J.J. MCCARTHY
J.J. McCarthy has consistently improved his pre-draft stock. McCarthy entered the process fresh off a National Championship victory with the Michigan Wolverines. He enjoyed his best season in 2023, completing a career-high 72.3% of his passes while throwing for 22 touchdowns and a personal-low four interceptions as a starter.
McCarthy is a high-IQ quarterback who combines those smarts with arm talent and athletic ability. Broncos head coach Sean Payton would appreciate McCarthy's ability to quickly pick up and execute his offense. Moldable traits are present, but so are clean mechanics and poise. The Broncos need to draft a quarterback that's prepared to play right away. McCarthy's experience as a winner (27-1 at Michigan) while operating a pro-style offense makes him the ideal candidate.
MICHAEL PRATT
The Tulane Green Wave coaching staff has compared quarterback Michael Pratt to New Orleans Saints legend Drew Brees. That might be music to Payton's ears. The comparison was specifically made by Tulane offensive line coach Dan Roushar, who previously coached with the Saints, spending a decade on Payton’s staff before coaching Pratt at the collegiate level. Payton will likely counsel Roushar on Pratt’s upside at some point.
Pratt enjoyed a solid throwing session at the NFL Combine, showcasing appropriate touch as required. Pratt also leaped a position-best 36-inch vertical, and his 9-foot-6 broad jump placed third. Pratt is an outstanding pre-snap processor that would quickly master Payton's QB-friendly scheme. If the Broncos don’t land one of the perceived top-four quarterbacks, Pratt would represent one heck of a consolation prize.
DEVIN LEARY
An experienced and well-traveled college quarterback, Devin Leary reminded NFL scouts of his aptness at the combine. Will Levis' successor at Kentucky this past season, Leary was arguably the most efficient quarterback prospect throughout on-field throwing drills. Leary earned praise for displaying clean lower and upper body mechanics. Leary showcased both speed pitches and curveballs.
Leary threw 25 touchdowns for the Wildcats this past season after transferring to the program from NC State. Having plenty of familiarity with pass-happy offenses, Leary once threw 35 touchdowns for the Wolfpack in 2021. Payton will appreciate what Leary put forth within the walls of Lucas Oil Stadium. Taking a chance on day-three quarterbacks with high football IQ has become increasingly popular since Brock Purdy's success. Leary meets the criteria.
