Why Broncos might have to trade two-time Pro Bowler to move up in draft

The Broncos could roll with Jarrett Stidham as a stopgap and take a developmental QB later in the draft. ESPN's Jeff Legwold predicted they'll select Tulane's Michael Pratt with the 76th overall pick. He tossed the most passing TDs (90) in school history in four seasons with the Green Wave.

ESPN's Jordan Reid told Tomasson there's a "consensus top-three QBs in this year's class" (USC's Caleb Williams, North Carolina's Drake Maye and LSU's Jayden Daniels).

Outside of these prospects, it's unclear who stands out as a potential franchise cornerstone.

The Broncos haven't made the playoffs since Hall of Famer Peyton Manning retired in 2016 and have had 13 starting QBs since. While Surtain II is an excellent player, Denver will mire in mediocrity until it finds an answer at the most important position.

If Denver lets go of Surtain II and moves up in the draft, the Chicago Bears could be a potential trade partner. They have the No. 1 pick but could stick with QB Justin Fields.

In this scenario, the Broncos would probably take Williams. Head coach Sean Payton called him "a generational player" during an appearance on "The Herd with Colin Cowherd" in November 2022.