When the Broncos acquired Jets quarterback Zach Wilson, head coach Sean Payton stated that the move was not intended to deceive before the NFL draft.
Payton clarified that the team wanted to add an experienced quarterback and had been working with Jets' general manager George Paton for weeks to make a deal.
Payton mentioned that the timing of the trade was not specific and could have happened three weeks ago, not just closer to the draft as it did. He stated this after the first round of the draft on Thursday.
This week, Denver bolstered its quarterback group by acquiring Wilson and selecting former Oregon standout Bo Nix with the 12th pick in the draft.
Despite signs pointing to Nix becoming the main quarterback for the franchise, Payton anticipates all quarterbacks, including Jarrett Stidham, competing for the starting position.
Stidham has started four games in his career, including the final two of the last season, with 496 passing yards, two touchdowns, and an interception. Wilson had 33 starts with the Jets. Nix is one of the more seasoned quarterbacks in the draft, having started in 61 games over five college seasons.
Payton said, “Bill (Parcells) taught me a long time ago to let them play. We have to make the most of the practice opportunities, let them develop, and things will work out.”
Wilson’s performance did not meet expectations after being the second overall draft pick in 2021 from BYU. He threw for 6,923 yards, 23 touchdowns, and 25 interceptions in three seasons with the Jets.
Following two disappointing seasons, the Jets opted to trade for two-time MVP Aaron Rodgers. However, Wilson found himself back in the starting lineup after Rodgers suffered an Achilles injury in the season opener against the Buffalo Bills.
Wilson continued to struggle as a quarterback, throwing for 2,271 yards, eight touchdowns, and seven interceptions. His NFL journey has been uncertain so far, but the Broncos appreciate his qualities.
Payton stated, “Despite several veteran quarterbacks signing contracts, we saw potential in a player who was the No. 2 overall pick in the draft just three years ago.” He added, “I think the first step for all these guys (is to figure out) what they do well.”
