Why Broncos should consider taking intriguing third-round QB

Depending on what happens in the 2024 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos should consider taking a quarterback outside the first round.

The Broncos have the 12th overall pick in the draft, so the top QB prospects may be off the board when they select. Matt Miller of ESPN suggested Denver could take South Carolina QB Spencer Rattler in the third round (No. 76) as a backup plan. 

"Looking at options outside the first round, Rattler in Round 3 is the best fit for the Broncos," wrote Miller. "A strong-armed and mobile quarterback who can carve up defenses when protected, Rattler is a playmaker with the tools to develop into a starter."

The Broncos have some interest in Rattler. They sent scouts to his pro day via Benjamin Allbright of KOA-AM in Denver.

Rattler — the No. 1 QB recruit in 2019, per 247Sports — transferred from Oklahoma to South Carolina after the Sooners benched him for Caleb Williams in 2021. In two seasons with the Gamecocks, he completed 67.5 percent of his passes for 37 touchdowns and 20 interceptions.