Draft week is finally upon us and the direction the Denver Broncos appear to be taking in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft is starting to become more clear. One of the questions remaining is, is it quarterback or bust for them in the first round?
It sure seems like it.
Newly hired General Manager George Paton has attended all the Pro Days, the quarterback coach and offensive coordinator have as well and the rumors, reports, and dot-connecting are happening. It sure seems like if the Broncos had their way, they would come away with a quarterback at 9th overall(or earlier) in the first round of the draft.
I say this because Paton has continuously said that they’re going to add competition this offseason and was very non-committal about Drew Lock being the Broncos' week one starter under center.
“I don’t know about Week 1, but we’re really high on Drew. I like seeing Drew here every morning when I come in. He’s working hard and trending in the right direction. As you know, he has a lot of talent. I think he’s becoming a better pro, but we’re still going to look at the quarterback position. I’ve said since I’ve gotten here that we want to bring in competition. That’s the goal, and we plan on doing that.”
Add in the team making an offer for Matthew Stafford, their potential interest in DeShaun Watson before his legal issues, and now their interest in the quarterback prospects, and things aren’t looking great for quarterback Drew Lock. Could that change a week from now? Sure, but as of right now, it seems like he’s at least fighting for his starting job this offseason.
The biggest question surrounding the Broncos is how aggressive they will be in potentially acquiring a quarterback via the draft? Will they stand pat at 9th overall and see if one they like falls to them? Or, will they be aggressive and trade up for the guy they want? There has been plenty of smoke and rumors about the Broncos being a trade-up candidate that has been met with contradictions of them staying put or even moving back. So, we’re really left guessing here. My guess is that they will attempt to trade up for a guy, but will Paton pay the price?
With Trevor Lawrence and Zach Wilson going first and second respectfully in the draft and more and more signs point to Mac Jones going third overall, that will potentially leave Trey Lance and Justin Fields for the Broncos. There are rumors of George Paton liking Lance, but there are the same rumors he likes Fields who likely fits into Pat Shurmur’s offense better. Trey Lance comes with immense upside but may need some time to develop while Fields is a bit more pro-ready in my opinion and could start day one. Both are intriguing options and likely the two the Broncos brass are arguing about or potentially already decided on.
So, is it quarterback or bust for the Broncos? Or will they be okay selecting the top defensive prospect at 9th overall or trading back and acquiring more picks this year and next to build up the roster?
Poll
Do you think it’s quarterback or bust for the Broncos in the first round?
This poll is closed
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36%
Yes, they will do whatever it takes
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63%
No