The Denver Broncos are caught in a dramatic tale of quarterback pursuits with HC Sean Payton trying to figure out his moves. With Russell Wilson’s time with the program ending, the coach may need to opt for the ‘beg, borrow & steal’ mantra to help the Broncos not lose their prowess on the field. 

Back in 2022, after a big trade, the former Super Bowl champion signed a five-year contract with Denver that amounted to $242 million. However, as per the reports and Wilson’s claims, things have gone downhill between him and the team management after they asked Wilson to give up an injury guarantee clause in his contract. Ultimately, Wilson refused to comply and they benched the quarterback. In a media meet at the NFL scouting combine, the quarterback said he is expecting a release within a week or so.

But Wilson’s departure will not be a smooth departure for Denver since parting ways with the quarterback will cost the Broncos $85 million in dead-cap charges. The team owns the 12th pick in the 2024 NFL Draft and this is the first time since 2021, they’ve had a first-round pick.  

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Now that the quarterback position will be vacant, Payton will take full advantage of the opportunity and is hopeful about the next recruit and claimed, “Our job is to make sure that this next one doesn’t have a line through it.” Going by the reported rumors, Sean Payton seems to be “enamored’ with J.J McCarthy. 

Unraveling McCarthy’s potential while Payton’s scouting saga continues

At just 21 years old, McCarthy boasts athleticism and is known for his NFL-calibre arm backed up by good size and untapped potential on the field. His reputation as an ‘elite processor’ aligns with the traits that Payton has valued in successful quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes. Along with this, the Broncos HC views McCarthy as the next Drew Brees, the first quarterback in the NFL to hold a record of throwing 30 touchdowns in seven consecutive seasons. 

Despite being ranked 55th overall by Bleacher Report’s NFL scouting department, the Michigan quarterback aims to climb the ranks. Even though McCarthy had a successful stint at Michigan his limited pass attempts-only 654 over the past two seasons leaves room for scrutiny. With this, Payton also has his eyes on Las Vegas Raiders quarterback, Jimmy Garoppolo.

The Chicago Bears quarterback, Justin Fields also stands a chance in entering the Broncos squad impressing Payton with his dynamic offensive weapon. Now it is to be seen how Payton balances the team finances yet at the same time earns the commitment of the best-suited replacement for Wilson.  

Also Read: Kurt Benkert: Broncos Could’ve ‘Suspended’ Russell Wilson in order To Not Pay Him $245 Million