2022 NFL Mock Draft: Jets Defense Rebuilt In 3-Round Projection
17. Denver Broncos: Malik Willis, Quarterback, Liberty
In this 2022 NFL Mock Draft, the Denver Broncos make Malik Willis the third quarterback selected right after the Saints and Steelers. Denver has one of the deepest overall rosters in the league. They do not have many glaring needs. General manager George Paton has done a great job rounding out this roster. However, this team is at the point where they need to make an investment at quarterback. It is clear that the Broncos are done with Drew Lock and Teddy Bridgewater isn’t going to lead the team on a deep playoff run anytime soon.
The Von Miller trade has put Denver in a position where they have the assets to make a blockbuster trade to acquire a disgruntled quarterback like Aaron Rodgers, Russell Wilson, or Deshaun Watson. But if their current teams retain the quarterbacks or Denver gets outbid then they need to take a quarterback with their first-round pick. After those three Denver’s best options could be trading for Jimmy Garappolo or Tua Tagovailoa. If Bridgewater leaves in free agency they could sign a veteran like Andy Dalton, Ryan Fitzpatrick, or Tyrod Taylor.
Denver doesn’t just need an upgrade at quarterback, they need a playmaker at quarterback. In the AFC West Denver plays Patrick Mahomes, Justin Herbert, and Derek Carr each twice a year. To be taken seriously as a contender in this division they need a quarterback that brings something different to the table that could scare opposing defenses. This is why Liberty quarterback Malik Willis could be a good fit in Denver. Not only does Willis have a strong arm but he can also make plays with his legs.
In order to play in Denver, a quarterback needs to be able to sling the ball. But Willis’ mobility is an element that Broncos’ quarterbacks have not had as a part of their skillsets. That could be the key to unlocking the potential of this Broncos offense.
Denver has a deep group of skill players on their roster. Next season Denver’s quarterback will have the luxury of having Courtland Sutton, Jerry Jeudy, Tim Patrick, Noah Fant, Javonte Williams, Melvin Gordin (if he is re-signed), and Albert Okwuegbunam at his disposal. Willis is not afraid to make big plays and may be the most equipped in this draft class to take advantage of weapons like this early in his career.
The best-case scenario for Denver next season, if they do not trade for one of the top quarterbacks that are expected to be available, is to retain Bridgewater and draft Malik Willis in the first round. Then Bridgewater and Willis could compete for the starting job and if Willis earns the starting job at some point could bring this team to the playoffs.