Full Breakdown
Denver Broncos Explore Late-Round Quarterback Options for Depth
3/22/2026, 12:47:13 PM
Current Quarterback Situation
The Denver Broncos are assessing their quarterback depth as they consider potential late-round prospects in the upcoming NFL Draft. While the team does not require a starting quarterback, there is a need for a backup, especially with Jarrett Stidham entering the final year of his contract. The Broncos may look to add a third quarterback to develop behind Bo Nix, but the current quarterback class is viewed as subpar, complicating their search.
Prospective Quarterback Candidates
Several quarterbacks have been identified as potential targets for the Broncos in the mid to late rounds of the draft:
Carson Beck | Miami | Fourth-Round Projection
Carson Beck is projected to be selected in the fourth round. While he possesses backup potential, concerns about his arm strength and ability to make tight-window throws may limit his prospects as a starter.
Taylen Green | Arkansas | Fourth/Fifth-Round Projection
Taylen Green is considered a project quarterback with elite athleticism. However, his elongated throwing motion and accuracy issues necessitate significant development time before he can be a viable option.
Sawyer Robertson | Baylor | Fourth/Fifth-Round Projection
Sawyer Robertson has good athleticism and can execute timing routes, but his arm strength is a concern. He may thrive in an offense that maximizes spacing, making him a suitable backup.
Cole Payton | North Dakota State | Fifth/Sixth-Round Projection
Cole Payton is noted for his athleticism and running ability, but his lack of experience and defensive reading skills raise questions about his readiness as a quarterback. Comparisons to Taysom Hill suggest he may have a versatile role.
Cade Klubnik | Clemson | Fifth/Sixth-Round Projection
Cade Klubnik is recognized for his intelligence and quick decision-making. However, he tends to over-rely on his physical abilities, which can lead to mistakes. With coaching, he could develop into a reliable backup.
Luke Altmyer | Illinois | Sixth-Round Projection
Luke Altmyer is smart and capable of reading defenses, but his arm strength is below NFL standards. His throwing motion may hinder his effectiveness, positioning him as a potential second or third-string quarterback.
Jalon Daniels | Kansas | Seventh-Round Projection
Jalon Daniels is characterized as a risk-taker with a strong arm capable of making all necessary throws. However, his accuracy and size may limit his effectiveness at the NFL level.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics highlight the overall weakness of the current quarterback class, suggesting that the Broncos may struggle to find a suitable candidate who can develop into a reliable backup. The challenges of coaching and developing these prospects are also noted, given the limited time and resources available.
Official Statements & Responses
Broncos head coach Sean Payton and his coaching staff face a significant challenge in identifying and developing a quarterback from this draft class. The team's focus remains on finding a player who can effectively support their offensive strategy.
Conclusion
As the Denver Broncos prepare for the NFL Draft, their search for a late-round quarterback underscores the complexities of building a competitive roster. With several candidates on the radar, the team's decision will hinge on their ability to develop a player who can contribute effectively in a backup role.
