5 quarterbacks the Denver Broncos could realistically consider in 2021

Dec 27, 2020; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Gardner Minshew II (15) enters the field prior to a game between the Jaguars and the Chicago Bears at TIAA Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Douglas DeFelice-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 27, 2020; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Gardner Minshew II (15) enters the field prior to a game between the Jaguars and the Chicago Bears at TIAA Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Douglas DeFelice-USA TODAY Sports /
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Andy Dalton, Denver Broncos
Dec 27, 2020; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys quarterback Andy Dalton (14) throws a touchdown pass in the second quarter against the Philadelphia Eagles at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Andy Dalton (Cowboys)

For the price (he’s playing on a $3 million deal in 2020), it’s surprising Andy Dalton didn’t have more suitors in 2020.

Having an experienced backup quarterback is something many NFL teams discover a desperate need for on a season by season basis, and the Cowboys certainly are glad (at least to some degree) that they have him after Dak Prescott’s season-ending injury.

With Prescott’s situation up in the air, there’s a chance Dalton could return to Dallas again in 2021 but if he hits the market again, I think he could be the ideal option for the Broncos, not necessarily from an upside perspective, but from the perspective of the front office and coaching staff.

If Drew Lock struggles badly or goes down with an injury, Dalton is a proven commodity in the NFL who can help keep the ship afloat. He’s proving that in Dallas by helping them to three straight wins and a chance at the playoffs despite being just 6-9.

With Vic Fangio likely needing to make the playoffs in 2021 to keep his job and perhaps even the same for GM John Elway, the Broncos can’t really take chances with a guy like Jeff Driskel out there if Lock falters.

The budget for a backup QB should be a bit larger in 2021 and with Dalton on the market, his starting experience could be a valuable short-term hedge for the current people in positions of power in Denver.