The Denver Broncos made a trade this week for former New York Jets quarterback Zach Wilson, but their plans for the quarterback position in the 2024 NFL Draft remain unchanged. With the 12th overall pick, the Broncos could target Washington’s Michael Penix Jr. or Oregon’s Bo Nix. However, there is speculation that they may trade up to get their preferred player. Peyton Manning mentioned during an interview on 104.3 The Fan’s Stokley and Josh that the Broncos are interested in Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy. Manning had a positive conversation with McCarthy and believes Denver is a place he would like to go, though ultimately it is out of his control.
Many mock drafts project McCarthy to be taken fifth overall by a team like the Minnesota Vikings, who may trade up to secure a quarterback. If the Broncos want McCarthy, it may require general manager George Paton to make a move up the draft board. McCarthy has expressed that he sees the Broncos as a good stylistic fit and has received advice from Sean Payton during the pre-draft process. McCarthy had a standout college career, going undefeated at Michigan in 2023 and winning the College Football Playoff National Championship. He has a strong record as a starter and has shown promise as a top prospect in the draft, despite not reaching certain yardage milestones in college.
Despite not hitting specific statistical benchmarks, McCarthy is viewed by NFL teams as having great potential at the professional level. The Broncos are among the teams that see this potential in the 21-year-old quarterback.