The Denver Broncos are still looking to add another quarterback to their roster despite trading for Mark Sanchez. They opted not to sign Robert Griffin III, and decided to pass on Ryan Fitzpatrick after learning of his asking price. Linebacker Von Miller and head coach Gary Kubiak brought about rumors that they could sign former Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel, but where does he realistically rank among their remaining options? Here are the top remaining quarterback options for Denver:
5) Josh McCown
Cleveland has been shopping the veteran QB since signing Griffin, and while he had some success last year, he's the least likely option for Denver. He'll be 37 when the 2016 season starts, and would be nothing more than a placeholder at the position.
4) Johnny Manziel
Yes, Manziel's off-field issues are a very, very, very big problem, there's a reason why he has been linked to Denver. He showed that he could be a successful starter in the NFL last season, passing for 1,500 yards, seven touchdowns, and just five interceptions in nine appearances last year. Plus, Denver has the kind of leaders that could (hopefully) help Johnny turn his life around.
3) Christian Hackenberg
Denver's best bet is probably getting a quarterback in the draft, and Hackenberg is a good option for them in the middle rounds. He has excellent size at 6'4" and 225 lbs, but more importantly, has a huge arm. However, he likely needs to develop a few years before taking over - something Denver doesn't have time for.
2) Colin Kaepernick
The Broncos and 49ers had the framework of a trade that would send Kaepernick to Denver, but he doesn't want to take the pay cut the Broncos are asking him to. Kaepernick's struggles have been alarming, yet he has a proven track record after leading San Francisco to the NFC Championship Game twice.
1) Paxton Lynch
Lynch is someone in the Osweiler mold - big, athletic quarterback with an accurate arm - that could be Denver's long-term answer at the position. Denver may have to trade up to get him, but if Lynch falls to them, they won't hesitate to get him.