Breaking: Broncos agrees deal to land recently-released $57.3M QB

The Denver Broncos have been linked to multiple free-agent quarterbacks this offseason and five intriguing options remain available.

The Denver Broncos have yet to add a quarterback to their stable since free agency began, but that could change. Jarrett Stidham is penciled in as the Broncos’ starter, but Sean Payton may be looking to upgrade the position.

Denver was reportedly interested in Kirk Cousins and Sam Darnold, but the signal-callers ended up in Atlanta and Minnesota, respectively. However, there are a few QB options that could make sense for the Broncos in 2024, whether as a placeholder for an incoming rookie or as a reclamation project.

Ryan Tannehill

Tennessee Titans quarterback Ryan Tannehill (17) passes the ball in the fourth quarter against the against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High.

If the Broncos want a solid veteran to take the reigns while a young rookie sits for a year, Tannehill may be the solution. During his 4.5 seasons in Tennessee, he passed for 14,447 yards and 93 touchdowns, completing 66.6% of his throws, and rushing for 893 yards with 21 additional scores.

Payton has proved he can squeeze production out of whoever is under center. Tannehill is a solid passer and underrated runner, which makes him dangerous in the red zone.

Payton could do much worse for a veteran bridge quarterback and wouldn’t have to commit long-term. Tannehill’s fit largely depends on whether he’s comfortable being a bridge quarterback and not the long-term answer in Dove Valley.

Carson Wentz

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Carson Wentz (11) throws a pass against the San Francisco 49ers during the second quarter at Levi's Stadium.

Going from the draft darling label and an NFL MVP candidate to carrying an ‘unfit to lead’ reputation, Wentz has been a backup level quarterback of late. But he’s had a fascinating career.

Wentz may not be the man who carried the Philadelphia Eagles to a World Championship, but he still has football left in the tank. After five years in Philly, he has since had one-year stints in Washington, Indianapolis, and Los Angeles.

Wentz’s best season outside of Philly was with the Colts in 2021 under then-head coach Frank Reich. As a bright offensive-minded coach, Payton could elevate Wentz back to his 2021 form.