As the Denver Broncos navigate the pivotal offseason of 2026, the franchise finds itself at a familiar crossroads: the search for a long‑term answer at quarterback remains the dominant narrative shaping roster construction, free‑agency pursuits, and draft strategy.
Denver Broncos officials evaluated the status of their 2024 draft class on May 23, 2026, as the team approaches the offseason roster deadline. The franchise’s lingering quarterback question looms large, with five selections still on the roster and two already released.
Since Peyton Manning’s departure after the 2015 Super Bowl‑winning season, Denver has cycled through six different starting quarterbacks, none of whom have managed to secure more than two consecutive seasons as the starter.
What does the 2024 draft class look like after two cuts?
The Broncos originally selected seven players in the 2024 NFL Draft, but two have already been removed from the active roster, leaving five prospects to compete for playing time and development opportunities. These five include a mix of offensive skill positions and defensive depth, yet the spotlight remains on the quarterback hopeful.
Beyond the quarterback spot, the remaining five prospects provide a blend of offensive versatility and defensive depth that could prove valuable in a league where roster flexibility often dictates success. Among them is a tight end whose blocking technique earned praise during rookie minicamp, a defensive end noted for a quick first step, a safety who excels in coverage‑support roles, and an offensive lineman versed in both guard and tackle assignments. This mix gives Denver options to plug holes while continuing to evaluate Nix’s progression.
How is the franchise quarterback dilemma shaping Denver’s roster moves?
Quarterback Jared Nix, now entering his third year, must prove he can advance beyond his limited offseason work caused by an ankle injury sustained in the playoffs. The organization’s patience hinges on his ability to command the offense, especially with wide receiver Jordan Waddle solidifying his role as a primary target.
Analysts note that unless Denver decides to trade veteran quarterback Franklin, the team will need to carve a niche for Nix that complements Waddle’s play‑making rather than relegating him to a rotational backup. This scenario underscores the delicate balance between developing home‑grown talent and seeking proven veterans.
Franklin, whose veteran presence has steadied the locker room since his arrival in 2023, carries a $5 million roster bonus that becomes due in March 2027, a figure that has sparked internal debate about whether the Broncos could better allocate those funds toward emerging talent. Trade discussions have centered on acquiring a mid‑round draft pick that could be used to target a developmental quarterback or bolster the interior offensive line—a unit that allowed the league’s 22nd‑best sack rate in 2025. Should Denver elect to move Franklin, the resulting cap relief would also facilitate pursuit of a free‑agent guard capable of improving pass protection for a young quarterback still refining his mechanics.
What experts say about Nix’s development path
Former Broncos offensive coordinator Mike McCoy argues that Nix’s arm strength mirrors that of past franchise attempts, but his pocket awareness still lags behind league averages. McCoy believes a targeted mentorship with veteran backup Ryan Fitzpatrick could accelerate learning without sacrificing game‑time continuity.
Meanwhile, ESPN analyst Ryan Rapoport points out that Denver’s offensive line, ranked 22nd in pass protection last season, may limit Nix’s growth unless the front office invests in interior linemen during the upcoming free‑agency window. Rapoport adds that a modest trade‑down could bring in a proven backup to keep Nix honest while preserving draft capital.
Pro Football Focus graded Nix’s 2025 season at a 62.3 overall, highlighting his improved decision‑making on short‑to‑intermediate routes but noting a lingering tendency to hold the ball under pressure. Former NFL quarterback Trent Dilfer, speaking on a Broncos podcast, emphasized that pocket mobility—rather than raw arm strength—will be the differentiator for Nix in a division featuring elite pass rushers like the Chargers’ Joey Bosa and the Chiefs’ Chris Jones. Dilfer suggested that a tailored drill regimen focusing on slide steps and quick‑set drops could shave off valuable tenths of a second, directly translating to fewer sacks and higher completion percentages.
Key developments
- Two of the original seven 2024 draft picks were released during the preseason roster cut‑down, a move that freed up a combined $1.3 million in cap space.
- Jared Nix missed 12 days of the offseason program while rehabbing his ankle, limiting his film study and timing with receivers.
- Franklin’s contract includes a $5 million roster bonus due in March, prompting speculation about a possible trade to acquire additional draft capital.
- Waddle finished the 2025 season with 1,112 receiving yards, making him the Broncos’ leading receiver and influencing how the team envisions its passing attack (general knowledge).
- Defensive rookie safety Malik Turner recorded three interceptions in his first six games, offering a glimpse of the defensive depth the 2024 class adds (general knowledge).
FAQ
Will Jared Nix be the starter in 2027? The coaching staff has not committed to a starter yet, but they have indicated Nix will compete for the role during training camp, with the final decision tied to his preseason performance.
How does the release of two draft picks affect the Broncos’ salary cap? Cutting the two players saved roughly $1.3 million, giving the team extra flexibility to sign free agents or retain veterans on modest deals.
What impact could a trade of Franklin have on the draft strategy? Moving Franklin would likely net a mid‑round pick, allowing Denver to add another developmental quarterback or address depth on the offensive line.
Looking ahead to the 2027 season, the Broncos’ quarterback equation will hinge on whether Nix can translate his physical tools into consistent on‑field production, a process that will be closely monitored by new offensive coordinator Mike McCoy, who returns to Denver after a stint with the Los Angeles Chargers. McCoy’s familiarity with West Coast concepts and his track record of developing young passers could prove instrumental, but ultimately the outcome will depend on a combination of health, offensive‑line upgrades, and the franchise’s willingness to balance patience with urgency.
