Mile High Report - All PostsBy Fans, For Fans....Your Source For Denver Broncos News and Commenthttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/50905/mhr-fav.png2024-03-19T04:00:00-06:00http://www.milehighreport.com/rss/current/2024-03-19T04:00:00-06:002024-03-19T04:00:00-06:00Horse Tracks: Ignoring true Broncos madness to focus on some fun bracket madness
<figure>
<img alt="FBN-SUPER BOWL-ELWAY CELBRATES" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/rLd0nxq-OmCZniQuFgHG0rx9h2Y=/0x67:2048x1432/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73217176/1083488276.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo credit should read TIMOTHY A. CLARY/AFP via Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>March Madness is the best. Don’t let the current state of the Broncos get you down. </p> <h3 id="WJvl0t"><strong>Good morning, Broncos Country!</strong></h3>
<p id="Ks3n53">It’s March Madness season, and thank goodness, because much of the news coming out of Dove Valley is either nothing or nothing great.</p>
<p id="YBPzy8">Like <a href="https://x.com/docllv/status/1769850654866932103?s=20">this prediction for our next QB </a>or <a href="https://x.com/MikeClayNFL/status/1769800544661405953?s=20">this Mike Clay evaluation of the current roster</a>.</p>
<p id="iz3exT">But as Jess Place <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com/2024/3/18/24104665/are-the-broncos-going-to-roll-with-jarrett-stidham-in-2024">noted yesterday</a>, it’s March. No need to panic. Yet.</p>
<p id="YHmq0H">Right? Right.</p>
<p id="tGXGh3">So rather than worry about that true madness, way more fun to do 18 NCAA March Madness brackets and regret every one of them the instant the first round of upsets hits on Thursday. So much fun.</p>
<p id="oxi1aN">It’s truly my favorite sports event of the year (second to Week 1 of the NFL season...though that is quickly diving to the bottom).</p>
<p id="1Dp8nJ">So I enjoyed this announcement from the Broncos regarding their upcoming “Bracket Challenge” with all things Broncos:</p>
<div id="YaWV33">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Introducing ... the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BroncosCountry?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BroncosCountry</a> Bracket Challenge. <br><br>Stay tuned this week for all the first-round matchups! <a href="https://t.co/qiAWa5vMZU">pic.twitter.com/qiAWa5vMZU</a></p>— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) <a href="https://twitter.com/Broncos/status/1769533688029630728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2024</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="Z8mKh4">And it got me thinking that it would be fun to do a Broncos Madness with 64 of our greatest players - and iconic games - in history.</p>
<p id="GM86W9">So I enlisted my favorite Photoshop™ Extraordinaire and friend of the show, AReferee, to organize our own Broncos Madness bracket challenge based on the various eras. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Ju5vmlpJdk9dwY4pRCAn_THn33Y=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25343579/Screenshot_2024_03_18_at_11.15.35_PM.png">
</figure>
<p id="zstR6n">There’s no easy way to tally the results without savvy computer programming skills - which I do not have - so we’re just going to do this old-school. Not quite pencil-it-in-and-mail-to-me old school, but close (and don’t complain about the individual rankings not being a true 1 v. 16...I thought of this silly idea late last night and areferee was kind enough to throw it together for me, so I didn’t have time to “rank” the seeds. So yeah, you’re going to choose between 1 and 2 in the first round a few times. You’ll be fine).</p>
<p id="FNK8Fn">Each Round 1 bracket matchup will have a poll below. Choose your winner and we’ll see who moves on to Round 2 (p.s. - it seems easy until you have to choose!) And with 32 “polls,” this should be fun, lol. </p>
<p id="fo9dtf">Who wants to bet the odds that The Duke ends up the champ like always?</p>
<h3 id="oe3blu"><strong>The OG Broncos</strong></h3>
<div id="OCCBGc"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283288"></div></div>
<div id="0ES6k1"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283293"></div></div>
<div id="P8E6fm"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283294"></div></div>
<div id="qYEE3Y"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283295"></div></div>
<div id="JIrqjG"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283297"></div></div>
<div id="MKAnm9"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283296"></div></div>
<div id="NCkZoO"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283298"></div></div>
<div id="qNhRS3"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283299"></div></div>
<h3 id="bmmPCS"><strong>The Elway Era</strong></h3>
<div id="7KEYFL"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283300"></div></div>
<div id="ulMZ0I"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283301"></div></div>
<div id="EN5ups"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283302"></div></div>
<div id="YciJQX"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283303"></div></div>
<div id="MqWmLD"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283304"></div></div>
<div id="3gzMy6"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283306"></div></div>
<div id="1zIZQd"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283307"></div></div>
<div id="90jpQi"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283308"></div></div>
<h3 id="Sk5aH2"><strong>The Manning/Miller Show</strong></h3>
<div id="qKsa7a"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283311"></div></div>
<div id="aIoaTr"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283313"></div></div>
<div id="7xgYA7"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283315"></div></div>
<div id="zP3RfC"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283316"></div></div>
<div id="PdJKyx"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283318"></div></div>
<div id="nXv7rM"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283320"></div></div>
<div id="7WNufw"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283323"></div></div>
<div id="0b5CLa"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283324"></div></div>
<h3 id="zVQgmf"><strong>Broncos’ Greatest Hits</strong></h3>
<div id="ZWuXvz"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283325"></div></div>
<div id="E6aY3w"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283332"></div></div>
<div id="nHK3vR"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283333"></div></div>
<div id="yxoy5k"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283334"></div></div>
<div id="YUOoZ8"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283335"></div></div>
<div id="sV3IQ4"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283336"></div></div>
<div id="DA2L0I"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283337"></div></div>
<div id="EraxHT"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12283339"></div></div>
<p id="n2PaLN">Now let us know the toughest and easiest choices you had to make (sorry in advance about Manning v. Von...totally unfair!)</p>
<h3 id="yaW3RH">Broncos/NFL News</h3>
<p id="93I9Ks"><a href="https://www.si.com/nfl/broncos/news/bo-nix-broncos-espn-mock-prediction">Oregon QB Bo Nix Mocked Twice to Broncos at No. 12 - Sports Illustrated Mile High Huddle: Denver Broncos News, Analysis and More</a><br>The Denver Broncos could be fated to draft Oregon's Bo Nix.</p>
<p id="dKX8C7"><a href="https://heavy.com/sports/denver-broncos/former-all-pro-wr-slams-sean-payton-mark-schlereth/">Former WR Roddy White Slams Sean Payton, Mark Schlereth</a><br>Broncos head coach Sean Payton and Fox Sports analyst Mark Schlereth got a staunch critic in a wide receiver who played 11 seasons for 1 team</p>
<p id="XfaWPj"><a href="https://www.si.com/nfl/broncos/news/jerry-jeudy-comments-broncos-browns-shade">Jerry Jeudy Throws Shade at Broncos After Browns Trade - Sports Illustrated Mile High Huddle: Denver Broncos News, Analysis and More</a><br>Jerry Jeudy had a message of sorts for the Denver Broncos, if you read between the lines.</p>
<p id="aqopMn"><a href="https://broncoswire.usatoday.com/2024/03/18/nfl-rumors-russell-wilson-blames-injury-for-struggles-with-broncos/">NFL rumors: Russell Wilson blames injury for struggles with Broncos</a><br>Russell Wilson blamed his first-year struggles with the Broncos on a shoulder injury.</p>
<p id="wdlTHA"><a href="https://broncoswire.usatoday.com/2024/03/18/michael-burton-contract-details-with-nfl-veteran-salary-benefit-rule/">Denver Broncos: Here are Michael Burton’s contract details for 2024</a><br>The Broncos utilized the NFL's Veteran Salary Benefit rule to lower Michael Burton's cap hit in 2024.</p>
<p id="DU0URa"><a href="https://www.nfl.com/news/2024-nfl-draft-ranking-rb-prospects-no-1-to-29">2024 NFL Draft: Ranking RB prospects, No. 1 to 29</a><br>With the 2024 NFL Draft on the horizon, Maurice Jones-Drew takes a look at this year's running back class, ranking the top 29 prospects at the position.</p>
<p id="3mfAj6"><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1641777&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Ftheathletic.com%2F5340744%2F2024%2F03%2F14%2Fbroncos-starting-qb-2024-draft%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.milehighreport.com%2F2024%2F3%2F19%2F24105288%2Fhorse-tracks-ignoring-true-broncos-madness-to-focus-on-some-fun-bracket-madness" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Kosmider: All signs point to Broncos grabbing QB in draft — but now or in 2025? - The Athletic</a><br>The Broncos need to draft an answer at quarterback to jumpstart the next chapter under Sean Payton, but it may not be easy to do in 2024.</p>
<p id="i2vZNh"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/insider/story/_/id/39748725/2024-nfl-free-agency-deals-trades-judging-overreactions-takeaways">Judging overreactions to 2024 NFL free agency deals, trades - ESPN</a><br>Should we be all-in on the Falcons, Ravens and Texans? Are the Broncos set to bottom out? We sized up six free agency takes.</p>
<p id="uC5KSw"><a href="https://www.nfl.com/news/russell-wilson-can-get-back-on-hall-of-fame-track-in-pittsburgh-plus-five-underrated-free-agent-signings">Russell Wilson can get back on Hall of Fame track in Pittsburgh; plus, five underrated free-agent signings</a><br>In this edition of the Scout's Notebook, Bucky Brooks believes Russell Wilson's relocation to Pittsburgh could put the veteran QB back on a Hall of Fame track. Plus, five underrated free-agent signings that you should NOT overlook.</p>
<p id="7VtfWR"><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1641777&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Ftheathletic.com%2F5351869%2F2024%2F03%2F18%2F49ers-draft-position-accounting-error%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.milehighreport.com%2F2024%2F3%2F19%2F24105288%2Fhorse-tracks-ignoring-true-broncos-madness-to-focus-on-some-fun-bracket-madness" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">49ers penalized draft position, will forfeit 2025 fifth-round pick after NFL discovers accounting error - The Athletic</a><br>The accounting errors in question were from the close of the 2022 league year.</p>
<p id="SE0KhB"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2024/insider/story/_/id/39716986/2024-nfl-mock-draft-predictions-free-agency-signings-first-round-field-yates">2024 NFL mock draft: Top-15 pick predictions off free agency - ESPN</a><br>How has NFL free agency impacted early-Round 1 draft plans? Will Minnesota trade up? Field Yates updated his predictions for pick Nos. 1-15.</p>
<p id="zOYrPV"></p>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2024/3/19/24105288/horse-tracks-ignoring-true-broncos-madness-to-focus-on-some-fun-bracket-madnessLaurie Lattimore-Volkmann2024-03-18T11:51:17-06:002024-03-18T11:51:17-06:00Report: Broncos had a top-30 pre-draft visit with TCU safety Millard Bradford
<figure>
<img alt="COLLEGE FOOTBALL: OCT 21 TCU at Kansas State" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/TOHpy1tpezyXUtYX1AoI2mse7IU=/0x0:5993x3995/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73215729/1741118701.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Scott Winters/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Broncos reportedly had a pre-draft visit with TCU safety Millard Bradford</p> <p id="Euj60O">According to draft analyst Ryan Fowler, the <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com">Denver Broncos</a> had a pre-draft top-30 meeting with <a href="https://www.frogsowar.com">TCU</a> safety Millard “Nook” Bradford. </p>
<div id="6RjAxD">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Denver Broncos hosted TCU S Millard ‘Nook’ Bradford on a Top 30 visit, a source said. <br><br>Bradford, a two-time All-Big 12 honoree, ran the second fastest 40 of all safeties at the Combine (4.42).</p>— Ryan Fowler (@_RyanFowler_) <a href="https://twitter.com/_RyanFowler_/status/1769749150994763870?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2024</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="R59fsv">First, a reminder or refresher on what exactly a top 30 visit is. Each NFL team in the days and weeks before the start of the <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft"><strong>NFL Draft</strong></a> is allowed to invite up to 30 different prospects to come in for what amounts to a job interview. From there, they will work them out, show them the facility, meet with coaches, and essentially have a job interview. It is just another step in the long scouting process leading up to the <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">NFL Draft</a>.</p>
<p id="W6wEwX">Bradford is a 5-10, 191-pound safety out of TCU who ran a 4.42 40-time at the NFL Scouting Combine. He played a total of five seasons at TCU and was one of their top defenders during that span. During his five seasons with the team, he played in 58 career games and totaled 231 tackles, 16.5 tackles for a loss, 1 sack, 4 interceptions, 19 pass deflections, and 2 forced fumbles. </p>
<p id="J3Q4zT"><a href="https://www.nfl.com/prospects/millard-bradford/32004252-4110-0088-de20-9be090c77a16">NFL.com’s draft analyst Lance Zierlein</a> views him as a player who may struggle to stick on an NFL roster in the future. </p>
<blockquote><p id="BxabVH"><em>Stocky safety lacking the length and speed to make easy scheme projections for him. Bradford’s inconsistencies as a tackle finisher will be a disqualifier for some teams. In coverage, he plays with good field recognition and is fairly athletic in man coverage but lacks the length and burst to make enough plays on the football. His physical limitations could make it an uphill battle to stick on a roster.</em></p></blockquote>
<p id="YL2pYk">He appears to be a day 3 or undrafted free agent candidate in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft but he would add some more depth to the Broncos' safety position. He is a bit undersized but brings good athleticism and coverage ability to the table. However, his lack of size will limit him as a tackler and potentially against bigger and stronger receivers and tight ends in the NFL. </p>
<p id="TGMWtz">The Broncos have done a bit of work to their safety room this offseason. Veteran Kareem Jackson was released during the season and longtime safety Justin Simmons was surprisingly released by the team before the start of free agency. They then went out and re-signed P.J. Locke and signed safety Brandon Jones to help replace Simmons on the roster. They still have Caden Sterns and 2023 sixth-round selection JL Skinner on the roster as well. So, safety is likely not an early-round need for the Broncos in the draft but they could look to add some more depth in the late rounds and/or during the undrafted free-agent signing period. </p>
<div id="YmNpYW"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sdOeOFtwFNI?rel=0" style="top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute; border: 0;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="accelerometer; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share;"></iframe></div></div>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2024/3/18/24105012/report-broncos-had-a-top-30-pre-draft-visit-with-tcu-safety-millard-bradfordScotty Payne2024-03-18T06:00:00-06:002024-03-18T06:00:00-06:00NFL Draft Profile: Oregon quarterback Bo Nix
<figure>
<img alt="2023 Pac-12 Championship - Oregon v Washington" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/kPTsNBkuweQZ_uIP59V-wA0OPG8=/0x0:7721x5147/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73214775/1833766310.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Ric Tapia/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Could Oregon’s Bo Nix be Sean Payton’s guy? Let’s take a look at his fit with the Denver Broncos. </p> <p id="4NbuF9">One prospect who the <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com">Denver Broncos</a> might be interested in during the first round of the 2024 <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">NFL Draft</a> is former Oregon quarterback Bo Nix. He is a 6’2, 214-pound quarterback who is considered one the top players at his position and is considered a great fit for Sean Payton’s offense. NFL Network’s lead draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah has Nix ranked as his <a href="https://www.nfl.com/news/daniel-jeremiah-s-top-50-2024-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-3-0">29th overall prospect in the 2024 NFL Draft and ranked as his fifth-best quarterback in the draft</a>. </p>
<p id="AxHDKo">Nix played five seasons in college and the past two seasons at Oregon where had two breakout seasons that made him a Heisman finalist this past year. During his two years at Oregon, Nix totaled 8,101 yards, 74 touchdowns, and only 10 interceptions. He added 143 carries for 744 yards and a whopping 20 rushing touchdowns as well during his two year stint at Oregon. </p>
<div id="GPR2e4">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Still in the heart of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NFLFreeAgency?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NFLFreeAgency</a> but today is also <a href="https://twitter.com/oregonfootball?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@oregonfootball</a> QB <a href="https://twitter.com/BoNix10?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BoNix10</a> Pro Day<br><br>His tape is very intriguing when it comes to effortless talent <a href="https://t.co/MkEoXphZHT">pic.twitter.com/MkEoXphZHT</a></p>— Dan Orlovsky (@danorlovsky7) <a href="https://twitter.com/danorlovsky7/status/1767570307374625253?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2024</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<h3 id="3XPS5V"><strong>Player Profile</strong></h3>
<p id="WSSHgy"><strong>Height: </strong>6-2 | <strong>Weight: </strong>214 pounds</p>
<p id="YsMfiE"><strong>Hand Size: </strong>10 1/8 inches</p>
<p id="Ea3XGz"><strong>Age: </strong>24 years old</p>
<h3 id="awePjk"><strong>Film Room</strong></h3>
<div id="mb5MkR"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fqzmwK9z3WY?rel=0" style="top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute; border: 0;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="accelerometer; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share;"></iframe></div></div>
<div id="LXxjzD"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/w5FPLuPMLgA?rel=0" style="top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute; border: 0;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="accelerometer; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share;"></iframe></div></div>
<div id="oD76bp"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HyNuHjqf7LY?rel=0" style="top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute; border: 0;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="accelerometer; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share;"></iframe></div></div>
<h3 id="jaXeLK"><strong>Scouting Report</strong></h3>
<p id="IAUska"><strong>Strengths</strong></p>
<ul>
<li id="SMnxl7">Five-year starter with 61 career starts(three years at Auburn and two years at Oregon) and enters the NFL as an experienced quarterback</li>
<li id="D1ljEV">Pretty good arm strength</li>
<li id="xuoReZ">Good arm elasticity and is able to throw from multiple arm angles</li>
<li id="L93VtF">Very athletic, mobile, has quick nimble feet, can extend the play if needed and can be a weapon as a runner (38 career rushing TDs in college)</li>
<li id="kbmCvm">Accurate when throwing on the run and on designed rollouts</li>
<li id="E4VIDA">Layers his passes well and will throw with touch over linebackers and safeties in the middle of the field</li>
<li id="a4Nksz">Accurate in the short and medium passing game</li>
<li id="3IabrB">Good processor who goes through his progressions and often makes the correct read</li>
<li id="0o0AHv">Thrives in the quick passing game and will be at his best in a quick-rhythm passing attack</li>
<li id="EgMWT3">Displays toughness and competitiveness on the field</li>
<li id="3uevKL">Heisman finalist this year (finished third in voting) </li>
<li id="wdLApY">Would be a great fit in Sean Payton’s offense</li>
</ul>
<p id="0mcdjY"><strong>Weaknesses</strong></p>
<ul>
<li id="q5MCEa">Age is a slight concern (24 years old)</li>
<li id="9I3Jnb">Played in a friendly offense at Oregon that had a lot of one-read plays and screen passes behind the line of scrimmage. </li>
<li id="f6MqEs">His deep ball isn’t great and you often see it overthrown </li>
<li id="qRJZTF">Struggles at times with decision-making when under pressure and on the run</li>
<li id="Q0bfYy">Sometimes tries to do too much when extending the play</li>
<li id="lwBZ9G">Which Bo Nix are you getting? Disappointing Auburn Bo Nix or Oregon’s Heisman finalist Bo Nix? </li>
<li id="cl4g7O">Needs to be in the right scheme to have success in the NFL </li>
</ul>
<h3 id="MksmVx"><strong>What other analysts are saying about Oregon quarterback Bo Nix</strong></h3>
<p id="RZ1SnO"><strong>NFL Network’s lead draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah - </strong><a href="https://www.nfl.com/news/daniel-jeremiah-s-top-50-2024-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-3-0"><strong>Link</strong></a></p>
<p id="kRVg5r"><em>Nix is an experienced quarterback (61 starts at Oregon and Auburn) with outstanding accuracy and toughness. He has average height and a thick/sturdy frame. He is at his best in the quick-rhythm passing game. He has quick feet in his setup, scans the field with urgency and accurately delivers the ball. He has a compact release and generates velocity to drive the ball to all three levels. He shows touch to layer the ball over linebackers and under safeties. He is accurate on designed rollouts. He does need to improve habits under duress, though, as he occasionally fails to feel back-side run-throughs and also falls off some throws when faced with interior pressure. He’s an urgent athlete and is effective as a runner, especially on zone reads. His coaches rave about his leadership and toughness. Overall, Nix’s combination of competitiveness, intelligence and experience reminds me of </em><a href="https://www.nfl.com/players/jalen-hurts/"><em>Jalen Hurts</em></a><em> coming out of college.</em> </p>
<p id="QOriSf"><strong>NFL.com’s draft analyst Lance Zierlein</strong> - <a href="https://www.nfl.com/prospects/bo-nix/32004e49-5811-8212-6abe-fc1a8b4f4942"><strong>Link</strong></a></p>
<p id="wHPZOY"><em>Rare five-year starting quarterback whose play has matured in front of our eyes. Nix displays the accuracy, arm talent and athleticism consistent with today’s brand of pro quarterback. He can be punctual in getting the ball out at the top of his drop or he can work through progressions and beat defenses with second-reaction plays. He throws with good velocity and puts the ball on the money when throwing on the move. Nix has shown great improvement with his pocket poise. He’s capable of moving the sticks as a scrambler or as part of the running game. Some of his gaudy production has been driven by the Oregon offense’s design, but his talent clearly stands out. I’ve harbored bias from watching the overwhelmed version of Nix during his Auburn days, but as the saying goes, “tape don’t lie.” Nix appears more than ready to attack the league with an NFL-caliber skill set.</em></p>
<h3 id="ksFRTW"><strong>Final Thoughts</strong></h3>
<p id="FpPMC2">Bo Nix really feels like a Sean Payton quarterback.</p>
<p id="JvB36u">Payton’s system is a quick-rhythm passing attack that utilizes quick passes, slants, a lot of screens, dump-offs to the running back and just getting the ball out of your hands quickly. Well, this is what Nix excelled at doing while at Oregon and made him this potential first-round quarterback prospect. So, based off all of that, Nix seems like a logical candidate to be the quarterback prospect Sean Payton falls in love with during this draft process.</p>
<div id="R9NoA6">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Daniel Jeremiah, on QBs that fit for Sean Payton: “McCarthy and Nix would be the two that make a lot of sense if they’re going to stick and pick there,” refers to processing and says of those QBs, “I think both of those guys do that really, really well.”</p>— Andrew Mason (@MaseDenver) <a href="https://twitter.com/MaseDenver/status/1760755213617492390?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2024</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="MMmyyk">One trait that we will discuss with each quarterback prospect is processing. Payton has repeatedly said that this is the top trait he looks for in a quarterback. How quickly they can process information, get the ball out, and make the correct reads. Nix has shown he has that trait, but how much of that was aided by a friendly Oregon offense? </p>
<p id="sbJPI9">The Broncos have met with Nix at the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/senior-bowl">Senior Bowl</a> and at the Combine so they probably have a decent idea on that currently. I would expect him to be among the 30 prospects they bring in for pre-draft visits before the draft to get one last in-person meeting with him before they need to make a decision</p>
<p id="xUa6up">As for the age thing, that doesn’t bother me too much since quarterbacks play well into their 30s and the Broncos desperately need to find a quarterback. If Nix can be their quarterback for 8-10 years and play solid football into his mid-30s, sign me up for that. </p>
<p id="W3uEfy">Where Nix goes in the draft is up for debate. Most have a late 1st/second-round grade on him but with four quarterbacks potentially going in the top 5 or 10, desperate teams could pull the trigger a bit earlier than that. Right now, the Broncos own the 12th overall pick and Nix is probably the odds-on favorite to be that pick right now. They could trade back and hope to get him later but if he is truly your guy, is it worth the risk? We shall see how that plays out. </p>
<p id="3uBcxn">Overall, I came out of this liking Nix a bit more than I did coming in. Most of that optimism is because of Sean Payton and his system. Nix seems like a perfect prospect for it and Nix himself needs to be in a scheme like this to have success in the NFL. So, the match makes sense for both parties. </p>
<p id="A84xGh">His upside is likely lower than the other quarterbacks in this draft but the floor seems much higher than the rest. If paired with Sean Payton, I think we will see the best out of Bo Nix but the question is, how good is his best? </p>
<div id="3OShqf"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12282282"></div></div>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2024/3/18/24102642/2024-nfl-draft-profile-quarterback-bo-nixScotty Payne2024-03-18T05:52:37-06:002024-03-18T05:52:37-06:00Horse Tracks: Are the Broncos going to roll with Jarrett Stidham in 2024?
<figure>
<img alt="Denver Broncos v Las Vegas Raiders" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/wjsL_8-FFf_d82b4X_Tx6Zu-CAk=/0x0:5512x3675/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73214726/1921545909.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Candice Ward/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Who will be the Broncos QB this season?</p> <p id="YBiw3G">With Russell Wilson now in Pittsburgh and the early scramble for free agent quarterbacks all but over, the Broncos appear to be happy, at least for now, with Jarrett Stidham as the Broncos quarterback.</p>
<p id="M0FPC7">It’s also March.</p>
<p id="HtzoZu">When it comes to deciding just who the Broncos quarterback should be, it’s important to take a survey of what the season expectations are. For the first time in the longest time, the Broncos are signaling a full rebuild. After years of lacking draft picks at the top of the draft, the Broncos will, this year, climb out from under the Sean Payton trade.</p>
<p id="BNI0lP">The Broncos are in a weird limbo where hopes are high, but expectations must remain realistic. This is terrific news for fans of Jarrett Stidham! If Denver can somehow maneuver its way into a blue-chip quarterback this year, Stidham will likely start the season and turn the reins over when the time is right (or a game or two late as it usually goes). If the Broncos choose to let the quarterback situation ride until next season, Jarrett Stidham just may be the face of the 2024 Broncos. </p>
<p id="vpO8MS">With the Broncos in a full-blown rebuild, does it really matter how much Stidham plays? The goal for this season should be to lay a solid foundation so that the <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com">Denver Broncos</a> can make a serious run in 2025 when they have the draft and salary cap capital to make some noise. </p>
<p id="GOFvX3">Hopefully.</p>
<h2 id="I4v6pZ"><strong>HEADLINES</strong></h2>
<p id="UChyll"><a href="https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/broncos-may-go-with-jarrett-stidham-and-a-rookie-at-quarterback-in-2024">Broncos may go with Jarrett Stidham and a rookie at quarterback in 2024 - NBC Sports</a><br>There's been a flurry of signings and trades for quarterbacks in the first week of the league year, but the Broncos have made only one move, cutting Russell Wilson.</p>
<p id="c1m33U"><a href="https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/report-denzel-perryman-is-expected-to-sign-one-year-deal-with-chargers">Report: Denzel Perryman is expected to sign one-year deal with Chargers - NBC Sports</a><br>The <a href="https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/">Chargers</a> are bringing back one of their former draft picks.</p>
<p id="jycppo"><a href="https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/with-justin-fields-the-steelers-could-eventually-do-what-the-bears-didnt">With Justin Fields, the Steelers could eventually do what the Bears didn't - NBC Sports</a><br>The Bears didn't exercise patience with the Justin Fields situation.</p>
<p id="HagLSA"><a href="https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/tredavious-white-to-visit-raiders-rams">Tre'Davious White to visit Raiders, Rams - NBC Sports</a><br>Released by Bills, former All-Pro begins search for new team this week.</p>
<p id="yJD5pQ"><a href="https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/giants-meeting-with-russell-wilson-included-no-guarantee-hed-play-over-daniel-jones">Giants' meeting with Russell Wilson included no guarantee he'd play over Daniel Jones - NBC Sports</a><br>Russell Wilson's decision to sign with the <a href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/">Steelers</a> came after a meeting with the Giants in which Wilson received no guarantee that he would play ahead of Daniel Jones if he signed there.</p>
<p id="yZjAah"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39753615/patriots-ex-vikings-wr-kj-osborn-agree-deal">Source: Patriots, ex-Vikings WR K.J. Osborn agree to deal - ESPN</a><br>The Patriots filled a need at wide receiver by agreeing to a contract with K.J. Osborn, a source told ESPN on Sunday.</p>
<p id="8WoWtE"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39753103/source-browns-reach-deal-ex-ravens-qb-tyler-huntley">Source - Browns reach deal with ex-Ravens QB Tyler Huntley - ESPN</a><br>The <a href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/">Browns</a> agreed to terms with former Ravens quarterback Tyler Huntley, a source told ESPN on Sunday.</p>
<p id="eNwMht"><a href="https://www.nfl.com/news/free-agent-wr-mike-williams-to-visit-panthers-jets-and-steelers-this-week">Free-agent WR Mike Williams to visit Panthers, Jets and Steelers this week</a><br>Former Chargers wide receiver Mike Williams has visits scheduled this week with the <a href="https://www.catscratchreader.com/">Carolina Panthers</a>, <a href="https://www.ganggreennation.com/">New York Jets</a> and Pittsburgh Steelers, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported Sunday.</p>
<p id="7mT4bf"><a href="https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/kenny-pickett-omits-steelers-from-his-goodbye-note-to-pittsburgh-qb-excited-for-opportunity-with-eagles/">Kenny Pickett omits Steelers from his goodbye note to Pittsburgh; QB 'excited' for opportunity with Eagles - CBSSports.com</a><br>Pickett clearly didn't leave the Steelers under the best of terms</p>
<p id="rDA41M"><a href="https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/deion-sanders-worries-caleb-williams-wont-be-successful-in-chicago-because-of-this-one-key-factor/">Deion Sanders worries Caleb Williams won't be successful in Chicago because of this one key factor - CBSSports.com</a><br>Sanders warns Williams of the cold weather in Chicago, doesn't want son to play in cold city either</p>
<p id="0qq4ly"><a href="https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/kenny-pickett-trade-why-eagles-gave-up-more-for-former-steelers-qb-instead-of-trading-for-justin-fields/">Kenny Pickett trade: Why Eagles gave up more for former Steelers QB instead of trading for Justin Fields - CBSSports.com</a><br>The Eagles chose Pickett to be their No. 2 quarterback</p>
<p id="qALj8m"></p>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2024/3/18/24104665/are-the-broncos-going-to-roll-with-jarrett-stidham-in-2024Jess Place2024-03-17T04:00:00-06:002024-03-17T04:00:00-06:00Broncos have worst preseason Super Bowl odds since 1977
<figure>
<img alt="Denver Broncos v Las Vegas Raiders" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/QLiVhnBT72lEKxq5Zyry2MnsZfM=/0x0:3363x2242/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73212809/1919980128.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Candice Ward/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Broncos currently sit at +12,000 at DraftKings Sportsbook to win the 2025 Super Bowl.</p> <h2 id="2wOYEx">Good morning, Broncos Country!</h2>
<p id="vKsR53">After the first week of NFL free agency, the <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com">Denver Broncos</a> odds have shifted. </p>
<p id="s7P4Zh">And not for the better. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/pSxTsfMdulNU87Xy9nY4MZ9pZyY=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25339846/Screen_Shot_2024_03_16_at_1.40.42_PM.png">
</figure>
<p id="vgH8GT">When the <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com/2024/1/28/24052901/broncos-tied-third-worst-2025-super-bowl-odds">Super Bowl odds were released</a> in January, the Broncos were at +10,000 at <a href="https://dksb.sng.link/As9kz/qqa5?_dl=https%3A%2F%2Fsportsbook.draftkings.com%2Fgateway%3Fs%3D341866674%26wpcid%3D163146%26wpcn%3DInarticle%26wpsrc%3DVox%26wpcrid%3DNFL&pcid=163146&psn=Vox&pcrn=Inarticle&pscn=NFL">DraftKings Sportsbook</a> to win the <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a>. Now, the odds have moved to +12,000. That’s beneath the <a href="https://www.hogshaven.com/">Washington Commanders</a>, <a href="https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/">Arizona Cardinals</a>, <a href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">New York Giants</a> and <a href="https://www.silverandblackpride.com/">Las Vegas Raiders</a> at +10,000. </p>
<p id="0EVDzD">Beneath Denver are the <a href="https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/">Tennessee Titans</a> and <a href="https://www.patspulpit.com/">New England Patriots</a> at +15,000 and the <a href="https://www.catscratchreader.com/">Carolina Panthers</a> at +25,000. </p>
<p id="XIcpMN">According to Ben Fawkes on Twitter, or whatever it’s called now, those are the worst preseason odds for the Broncos since 1977 (as far back as Sports Odds History goes).</p>
<div id="RaCHFW">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Denver Broncos currently have 120-1 odds to win the Super Bowl at <a href="https://twitter.com/DKSportsbook?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DKSportsbook</a>.<br><br>Those are Denver's worst preseason Super Bowl odds since 1977 (as far back as the <a href="https://twitter.com/SOHistory?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SOHistory</a> database goes) </p>— Ben Fawkes (@BFawkes22) <a href="https://twitter.com/BFawkes22/status/1767687584510292212?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2024</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="LKUrYY"> Since Denver doesn’t currently have a viable starting quarterback, those odds make complete sense. If you’re curious about the <a href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/">Pittsburgh Steelers</a>, they currently sit at +5,000. They were at +6,000 before the trade for Justin Fields on Saturday. </p>
<p id="TrxxAY">The current favorites to win the 2025 Super Bowl at DraftKings: the <a href="https://www.ninersnation.com/">San Francisco 49ers</a> at +550, the <a href="https://www.arrowheadpride.com">Kansas City Chiefs</a> (+600), the <a href="https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/">Baltimore Ravens</a> (+900), the <a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/">Buffalo Bills</a> (+1,100) and the <a href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/">Detroit Lions</a> (+1,200). </p>
<h3 id="zpXsQW">Broncos news</h3>
<p id="seXjhK"><a href="https://denversports.com/2111479/while-the-broncos-are-rebuilding-should-a-new-stadium-be-in-the-plan/">While the Broncos are rebuilding, should a new stadium be in the plan? - Denver Sports</a><br>While they're busy revamping the team, the Broncos should move on from Empower Field at Mile High and start fresh with a new stadium. </p>
<h3 id="YDXLkH">NFL news</h3>
<p id="Sllf4t"><a href="https://www.boston.com/sports/new-england-patriots/2024/03/16/nfl-expert-believes-patriots-committed-keeping-no-3-pick-taking-quarterback/">NFL expert believes Patriots are 'committed' to taking QB at No. 3</a><br>An NFL expert believes the Patriots are "committed" to keeping the No. 3 pick and taking a quarterback. Read more on Boston.com.</p>
<p id="ZvQsq4"><a href="https://www.deseret.com/sports/2024/03/16/zach-wilson-trade-options/">Zach Wilson trade: What NFL teams still need a quarterback? – Deseret News</a><br>Will Zach Wilson still be traded? Where will Zach Wilson end up? Are the Bears trading Justin Fields? Which NFL teams are expected to draft quarterbacks?</p>
<p id="IZEI5J"><a href="https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2024-nfl-free-agency-week-1-winners-and-losers-texans-vikings-leading-the-way-as-cardinals-cowboys-slip/">2024 NFL free agency Week 1 winners and losers: Texans, Vikings leading the way as Cardinals, Cowboys slip - CBSSports.com</a><br>Which teams and players deserve extra props after the first wave of action?</p>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2024/3/17/24103312/broncos-worst-preseason-super-bowl-odds-since-1977Ian St. Clair2024-03-16T07:00:00-06:002024-03-16T07:00:00-06:00When does the ‘best’ QB in each draft get taken?
<figure>
<img alt="Super Bowl XXXII - Green Bay Packers v Denver Broncos" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/jmlvD76j8cck9QXbUcqyNf8FtnE=/0x15:3600x2415/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73211446/455080964.0.jpg" />
</figure>
<p>How often is the best QB in the draft taken in the top 3 and how often is the best QB taken later? </p> <p id="tYYDtd">There is plenty of chatter that there could be four quarterbacks taken in the top five or six picks in the draft. Were this to happen it would be the first time that it has ever happened. </p>
<div id="AZGo9t">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The STRONG expectation around the NFL right now- 4 of the first 6 picks will be QB's.</p>— Daniel Jeremiah (@MoveTheSticks) <a href="https://twitter.com/MoveTheSticks/status/1768653330971258995?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2024</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="dRYvm8">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">If QBs get taken 1-4, or with 4 of the top 5, 6 or 7 picks, it will be the first time it has EVER happened. <a href="https://t.co/JmyHvbIt5i">pic.twitter.com/JmyHvbIt5i</a></p>— Joe Mahoney (@ndjomo76) <a href="https://twitter.com/ndjomo76/status/1768687110603583533?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2024</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="zVChbP">Only three times in history have the top three picks been QBs: 2021, 1999 and 1971. 1989 doesn’t count because two QBs were taken with the first and second pick of the supplemental draft (Steve Walsh and Timm Rosenbach). </p>
<p id="b3PI9n">2021 - Trevor Lawrence, Zach Wilson and Trey Lance</p>
<p id="WJIEqN">1999 - Tim Couch, Donovan McNabb and Akili Smith</p>
<p id="8gcisa">1971 - Jim Plunkett, Archie Manning and Jim Pastorini</p>
<p id="0aHfzp">This got me wondering where in the draft the best QB from each class was taken. I used total career games started as the criteria. Here is the list going back to 1970 of where the best QB was drafted (pick #) and who that QB was/is. </p>
<div id="tpa77P"><table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Draft Year</td>
<td>Draft Slot of "best" QB</td>
<td>Name of "Best" QB</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1970</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>Terry Bradshaw</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1971</td>
<td>67</td>
<td>Ken Anderson</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1972</td>
<td>330</td>
<td>Brian Sipe</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1973</td>
<td>57 & 64</td>
<td>Dan Fouts and Joe Ferguson</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1974</td>
<td>53</td>
<td>Danny White</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1975</td>
<td>116</td>
<td>Steve Grogan</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1976</td>
<td>6</td>
<td>Richard Todd</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1977</td>
<td>275</td>
<td>Steve DeBerg</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1978</td>
<td>17</td>
<td>Doug Williams</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1979</td>
<td>82</td>
<td>Joe Montana</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1980</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>Marc Wilson</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1981</td>
<td>33</td>
<td>Neil Lomax</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1982</td>
<td>5</td>
<td>Jim McMahon</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1983</td>
<td>27</td>
<td>Dan Marino</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1984</td>
<td>38</td>
<td>Boomer Esiason</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1985</td>
<td>37</td>
<td>Randall Cunningham</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1986</td>
<td>3</td>
<td>Jim Everett</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1987</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>Vinny Testaverde</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1988</td>
<td>76</td>
<td>Chris Chandler</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1989</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>Troy Aikman</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1990</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>Jeff George</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1991</td>
<td>33</td>
<td>Brett Favre</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1992</td>
<td>227</td>
<td>Brad Johnson</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1993</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>Drew Bledsoe</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1994</td>
<td>6</td>
<td>Trent Dilfer</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1995</td>
<td>5</td>
<td>Kerry Collins</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1996</td>
<td>42</td>
<td>Tony Banks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1997</td>
<td>42</td>
<td>Jake Plummer</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1998</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>Peyton Manning</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1999</td>
<td>2</td>
<td>Donovan McNabb</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2000</td>
<td>199</td>
<td>Tom Brady</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2001</td>
<td>32</td>
<td>Drew Brees</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2002</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>David Carr</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2003</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>Carson Palmer</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2004</td>
<td>11</td>
<td>Ben Roethlisberger</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2005</td>
<td>24</td>
<td>Aaron Rodgers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2006</td>
<td>11</td>
<td>Jay Cutler</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2007</td>
<td>92</td>
<td>Trent Edwards</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2008</td>
<td>3</td>
<td>Matt Ryan</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2009</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>Matthew Stafford</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2010</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>Sam Bradford</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2011</td>
<td>35</td>
<td>Andy Dalton</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2012</td>
<td>75</td>
<td>Russell Wilson</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2013</td>
<td>39</td>
<td>Geno Smith</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2014</td>
<td>36</td>
<td>Derek Carr</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2015</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>Jameis Winston</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2016</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>Jared Goff</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2017</td>
<td>10</td>
<td>Patrick Mahomes</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2018</td>
<td>7</td>
<td>Josh Allen</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2019</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>Kyler Murray</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2020</td>
<td>6</td>
<td>Justin Herbert</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2021</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>Trevor Lawrence</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2022</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>Kenny Pickett</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2023</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>Bryce Young</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div>
<p id="vlfmpB">Of course you could argue (rightly) that Brock Purdy is (as of right now) the best QB from the class of 2022, despite Kenny Pickett having made more starts, but for the sake or ease, I went with career games started as my metric. </p>
<p id="cgTp0f">So fourteen times the best QB in the draft has been taken first overall, starting with Terry Bradshaw in 1970 (I have the data going further back, but frankly, I really don’t care about it). Only once was the best QB in the draft taken second (McNabb). The draft slot with the most “best” QBs after number one is the sixth. Those would be Richard Todd, Trent Dilfer and Justin Herbert. The latest that the best QB has ever been draft (1970-present) is 330th. No that was not Tom Brady; that was Brian Sipe in the 1972 draft. He was taken in the 13th round, back when there were almost as many rounds in the draft as there were teams in the NFL. Brady was drafted 199th. </p>
<p id="lnBcnq">The Broncos could end up takin the fourth or even the fifth QB drafted if they stay with the 12th pick. While that often leads to a wasted pick like Matt Corral, Davis Webb, Christian Hackenberg, Ryan Nassib, Mike Kafka, Pat White or Kevin O’Connell - all of whom started zero NFL games. Sometimes it can lead to Marc Bulger, Derek Carr, Andy Dalton, Matt Schaub, Jimmy Garoppolo, Lamar Jackson or Jalen Hurts. While none of those guys ever led his team to hoist the Lombardi, you could argue that two or more of those guys are or were franchise QBs (whatever that term means). </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/UnOMGPBAVYoJPrUbFZ0AsrjGhRE=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25338344/qbs_drafted_first_through_fifth_by_year.png">
</figure>
<div id="X6mcXW"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12280366"></div></div>
<p id="AdiOaE"></p>
<p id="JtFLlB"></p>
<p id="4nTdv0"></p>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2024/3/16/24102178/when-does-best-quarterback-in-each-draft-get-takenJoe Mahoney2024-03-16T06:00:00-06:002024-03-16T06:00:00-06:00Broncos’ newest defensive players are more than stoked to be here
<figure>
<img alt="Syndication: Austin American-Statesman" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/xVVhmDQbylxa5yxsGbHuPgEZXqE=/0x81:1600x1148/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73211342/usa_today_22754605.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Nick Wagner / USA TODAY NETWORK</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Welcome to Denver, safety Brandon Jones and DT Malcom Roach!</p> <p id="uWtKi4">This week, safety Brandon Jones became the first outside free agent to sign with the <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com">Denver Broncos</a> during free agency... and he couldn’t be more excited about it.</p>
<p id="BeEfJ5">“I was shocked, but also super, super happy,” <a href="https://x.com/Broncos/status/1768360448955388377?s=20">he recalled about the new</a>s, adding that he actually played for the Broncos with his city league team. “Sounds crazy but I promise I have receipts...and I think it’s kinda just full circle, so everything worked out just the way it’s supposed to be.”</p>
<p id="HSnbLE">He’ll be added to a lineup that includes Caden Sterns, P.J. Locke, Delarrin Turner-Yell, and JL Skinner. Even more exciting to him, perhaps, is that he’s rejoining his “Texas boys” with a lot of fellow Longhorns “coming in strong” to the team.</p>
<div id="EUvJTi">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Reunited <a href="https://twitter.com/Broncos?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Broncos</a> <a href="https://t.co/WgVCtiZVsZ">https://t.co/WgVCtiZVsZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/AnYJjMmeCC">pic.twitter.com/AnYJjMmeCC</a></p>— Texas Football (@TexasFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/TexasFootball/status/1768759637711430138?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2024</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="K64lAV">One of his main priorities for an organization, though, is the atmosphere and comradery of the players. Jones admitted that the reputation of the culture Sean Payton is building was a big sway chip for him.</p>
<p id="Y4u4De">“I think culture is, in a lot of ways, overlooked... once you get it, it really builds and helps teams get to where they want to be,” he explained.</p>
<div id="3o0uJk">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">"It was a no-brainer. ... It feels like I'm at home."<br><br>DT Malcolm Roach on signing with Denver & reuniting with HC Sean Payton: <a href="https://t.co/zNfMBMTJnb">pic.twitter.com/zNfMBMTJnb</a></p>— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) <a href="https://twitter.com/Broncos/status/1768397191255556565?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2024</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="EeXJIa">Also reporting to Denver this week is former <a href="https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/">New Orleans Saints</a> defensive tackle Malcolm Roach, who is ready to reunite with Sean Payton.</p>
<p id="7J8bi3">“Coach Payton gave me my chance as an undrafted free agent,” <a href="https://www.denverbroncos.com/video/it-was-a-no-brainer-dt-malcolm-roach-on-signing-with-the-broncos">Roach said</a>, “Gave my chance to come out, live a dream, especially being from Louisiana. It was a no-brainer to go reunite with my coach and all my old teammates and my college teammates. And it feels like I’m at home, for real.”</p>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2024/3/16/24101379/broncos-newest-defensive-players-talk-mediaEli Nicholson2024-03-16T04:00:00-06:002024-03-16T04:00:00-06:002024 NFL Mock Draft: Is Bo Nix the guy the Broncos should target?
<figure>
<img alt="Vrbo Fiesta Bowl - Liberty v Oregon" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/CHbieMvZNcBCamHNdm-c6jHhdFY=/0x0:3599x2399/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73211248/1910200746.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Field Yates of ESPN dropped his latest mock and had the Denver Broncos picking Oregon’s Bo Nix 12th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft.</p> <p id="haIIfd">The <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com">Denver Broncos</a> desperately need a franchise quarterback, but they played themselves out of position for one of the four top quarterbacks in the 2024 <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">NFL Draft</a>. That means they will need to find a way to trade up or potentially reach far for a quarterback that has less first-round consensus as those top four do.</p>
<p id="8tmplE">That was exactly what <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/insider/draft2024/insider/story/_/id/39716986/2024-nfl-mock-draft-predictions-free-agency-signings-first-round-field-yates">Field Yates of ESPN did with his latest NFL mock draft</a> this week. He had five quarterbacks going within the first 12 picks with the Broncos picking the last of the five in Oregon’s Bo Nix.</p>
<blockquote>
<p id="77H5HV"><strong>12. Denver Broncos</strong><br><strong>Bo Nix, QB, Oregon</strong></p>
<p id="SPBILX">Quarterbacks are flying off the board in this scenario, and with Denver not scheduled to pick again until the third round, it must act decisively to add one now. The Broncos have not addressed the quarterback spot in any way this offseason — they are currently slated to start Jarrett Stidham — and Nix’s blend of accuracy, processing speed and mobility makes him an intriguing option. He was incredibly efficient last season at Oregon, completing 77.4% of his throws and tossing 45 touchdown passes to three interceptions. It has been a transformative offseason for the franchise, with Denver <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39654399/broncos-cut-russell-wilson-take-85m-dead-money-hit">releasing</a> quarterback Russell Wilson and safety Justin Simmons and <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39692815/broncos-trade-wr-jerry-jeudy-browns-picks">trading</a> receiver Jerry Jeudy. Nix would help get things back on track.</p>
</blockquote>
<p id="3H6py1">When the <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl-combine">NFL Combine</a> concluded, Nix’s stock had suffered some setbacks I felt but he erased all that with an outstanding pro day. </p>
<div id="JrZhWO">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Oregon QB Bo Nix looking good in the throwing drills. <a href="https://t.co/3OnQcgY9cU">pic.twitter.com/3OnQcgY9cU</a></p>— Zachary Neel (@zacharycneel) <a href="https://twitter.com/zacharycneel/status/1767617360087978326?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2024</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="TJ3EDc">Add that to the rumors that Broncos’ head coach Sean Payton loves Bo Nix and you get a lot of smoke at the 12th pick.</p>
<p id="uvgBgj">“He would look really good in a Sean Payton offense,” <a href="https://twitter.com/RossTuckerPod/status/1766131775607345395">Greg Cosell said on the Ross Tucker Podcast last week</a>. </p>
<aside id="NtBlW9"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Broncos have scouts in attendance at Oregon’s pro day","url":"https://www.milehighreport.com/2024/3/12/24098703/broncos-have-scouts-in-attendance-of-oregon-pro-day"}]}'></div></aside><p id="3ND20P"><a href="https://twitter.com/TheHerd/status/1765460558235763007">Colin Cowherd also noted</a> that Payton needs to win now and Bo Nix is an NFL-ready win now type of rookie. I’m not a super college draftnik type and I know plenty of ‘sure things’ end up busts in the NFL and other guys come out of nowhere, so really I have no choice but to trust Sean Payton and hope Denver can finally snag a franchise quarterback.</p>
<p id="gzx6zi">If Denver were to take Bo Nix at #12, how would you feel? Obviously, our opinions could change if they took him later in the draft, but let’s keep this poll specifically with Denver’s 12th overall selection. </p>
<div id="iHrjZs"><div data-anthem-component="poll:12280773"></div></div>
<h2 id="hnxfd8">Horse Tracks</h2>
<p id="zAHW94"><a href="https://denversports.com/2111476/broncos-add-a-linebacker-to-replace-josey-jewell/">Broncos add a linebacker to replace Josey Jewell</a><br>Cody Barton agreed to terms on a 1-year contract with the Broncos on Friday stabilizing the ILB corps.</p>
<p id="V7poFf"><a href="https://letstalkbroncos.com/who-are-the-denver-broncos-building-blocks/">Who Are the Denver Broncos' Building Blocks?</a><br>The Denver Broncos are in the process of tearing down the roster, but who are the foundational pieces that should be left intact?</p>
<p id="TQb3Ap"><a href="https://letstalkbroncos.com/why-the-denver-broncos-should-trade-for-justin-fields/">Why the Denver Broncos SHOULD Trade for Justin Fields</a><br>The Denver Broncos are once again in a QB conundrum. This time though, the answer is straightforward -- Justin Fields</p>
<p id="nEVRNs"><a href="https://letstalkbroncos.com/should-the-denver-broncos-draft-brock-bowers/">Should the Denver Broncos Draft Brock Bowers? | Draft Profile</a><br>The Denver Broncos are in range to add an elite offensive player to their roster from 2024's NFL Draft. Should Brock Bowers be that player?</p>
https://www.milehighreport.com/2024/3/16/24102628/2024-nfl-mock-draft-bo-nix-denver-broncosTim Lynch