New mock draft signals Broncos will move on from Russell Wilson

"The Broncos might sign an experienced veteran, but McCarthy has some traits that we've seen Payton gravitate toward in the past," wrote Reid. "McCarthy is an instinctive and accurate passer who makes plays to win games. He has really good ball placement, hitting 72.3% of his throws this season."  

McCarthy led Michigan to its first national championship in 26 years. However, in 15 games, he only threw 22 TDs and surpassed the 300-passing yard mark once.

"Tell me the game where you're blown away by his QB ability," one AFC scout told ESPN's Matt Miller. Miller added the scout gave him a third-round grade.

While Payton claimed the Broncos might keep Wilson, that seems unlikely after they benched him in Week 17. Per The Athletic's Dianna Russini, he started for two months despite knowing the team was mulling moving on from him.

If Denver releases Wilson in 2024 with a post-June 1 designation, it will incur $35.4M in dead money and no cap savings, per Over The Cap. Signing an established veteran isn't an option; it must draft a replacement. 

The Broncos need a can't-miss prospect after missing the playoffs for eight straight seasons — the second-longest active drought in the NFL. They should consider trading up to take a more polished passer, like North Carolina's Drake Maye or USC's Caleb Williams, instead of rolling the dice on McCarthy.