Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton has expressed interest in adding a "Joker" player this offseason, someone who can line up in multiple positions. While much of the speculation has centered around wide receivers capable of taking handoffs, tight ends who can align out wide, or running backs who can play in the slot, Payton’s answer to this role may actually come at quarterback.
During his time with the Saints, Payton utilized former BYU quarterback Taysom Hill in a variety of positions, including quarterback, wildcat, tight end, and wide receiver. This year, he could find a similar player in Alabama’s Jalen Milroe.
Why Milroe could fill the joker role
One of the biggest reasons Milroe fits this role is his elite athleticism. As Alabama’s starting quarterback for two seasons, he rushed for 1,577 yards and 33 touchdowns. His ability to carry the ball would give Denver a physical option in short-yardage situations as a wildcat quarterback. Additionally, his arm strength would keep defenses honest. If teams load the box when he’s in, he has the ability to hit a pass downfield.
THREE RUSHING TDs for Jalen Milroe!
— CBS Sports College Football 🏈 (@CBSSportsCFB) November 5, 2023
He turned on the JETS to give @AlabamaFTBL the lead! pic.twitter.com/9K1SB8pVkb
Milroe also has the size to contribute as an H-back in Denver’s offense. Listed at 6-foot-2 and 225 pounds during his time at Alabama, he has since dropped some weight but could easily add it back while maintaining his speed and explosiveness.
Perhaps the biggest reason Milroe might embrace this hybrid role is that it could be his best chance to see the field early in his career. As a passer, he remains a work in progress. His timing, accuracy, and overall mechanics, particularly his footwork and ability to read defenses, need significant refinement before he can be considered a viable starting quarterback.
As for where the Broncos could land Milroe in the draft, he is likely to be available in the third round. This would make him a solid value pick, as he could immediately contribute in the Joker role while potentially developing into a starting quarterback down the road who the Broncos could trade down the road.
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