I'm a big fan of the NFL Draft. I read all the mocks, watch all the highlight packages and follow all the storylines carefully. One interesting storyline that isn't being talked about very much this year is the Denver Broncos potentially drafting Peyton Manning's replacement. After all, John Elway has selected a QB in two of the four drafts he's been a part of in Denver.
Manning took a $4 million pay cut for the 2015 season and has one more year left on his contract. His backup and 2012 second-rounder Brock Osweiler is entering the final year of his contract. Zac Dysert is currently the No. 3 QB on the roster.
Even if Manning was 15 years younger, quarterback would still be a need for the Broncos. It's the most important position in the game and every team should be aware of its depth chart under center. Unfortunately, Manning is 39 which makes the need for a QB a bit more immediate, even if the team does believe in Osweiler's potential.
So which prospects are possibly on Denver's radar?
"Looking beyond the opening tier at quarterback on this draft board, it's good to remember Elway likes the big guys, so certainly Oregon State's Sean Mannion (6-foot-5 5/8, 229 pounds) gets a look as does South Alabama's Brandon Bridge (6-4 3/8, 229)," ESPN Broncos reporter Jeff Legworld wrote.
"Mannion's turnover rate, especially fumbles, is a big concern as was his lackluster Senior Bowl week. But he is a four-year starter and the kind of thrower who would have a chance for success in an offense that can run the ball with some consistency. Bridge needs some work on his mechanics - he did not complete more than 52.1 percent of his passes in any college season, either at Alcon State or South Alabama - but has flashed an NFL-worthy arm with mobility and has plenty of room to grow on his developmental curve."
If the Broncos are smitten with Mannion then they may have to compete with the Dallas Cowboys and St. Louis Rams, who have also expressed varying degrees of interest in the young thrower. Legwold also lists Duke's Anthony Boone and Colorado State-Pueblo's Chris Bonner as options.
Will either of those guys become the heir-apparent to Manning? Crazier things have happened.
The NFL Draft begins on April 30.
