Denver Broncos: Updated quarterbacks to consider in draft

ARLINGTON, TX - APRIL 26: A video board displays the text "THE PICK IS IN" for the Denver Broncos during the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft at AT&T Stadium on April 26, 2018 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
ARLINGTON, TX - APRIL 26: A video board displays the text "THE PICK IS IN" for the Denver Broncos during the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft at AT&T Stadium on April 26, 2018 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /
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player. Scouting Report. QB. Liberty. MalikWillis. 30. 2384. Pick Analysis

LYNCHBURG, VIRGINIA – SEPTEMBER 18: Malik Willis #7 of the Liberty Flames rolls out of the pocket against the Old Dominion Monarchs at Williams Stadium on September 18, 2021, in Lynchburg, Virginia. (Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images)
LYNCHBURG, VIRGINIA – SEPTEMBER 18: Malik Willis #7 of the Liberty Flames rolls out of the pocket against the Old Dominion Monarchs at Williams Stadium on September 18, 2021, in Lynchburg, Virginia. (Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images) /

Our last option brings a new presence to Broncos Country.

Through the last 20 years, Denver has opted to play quarterbacks with the traditional “pocket-passer” mold. The John Elway’s, the Tim Tebow’s, the Peyton Manning’s. All of them were one-dimensional and were able to find success through the pocket.

However, the game is evolving, and more teams are beginning to go with these “two-dimensional” quarterbacks: players that can create plays from the pocket and on the run.

Malik Willis is one of those guys.

Willis has the ability to extend the play in multiple ways. First and foremost, his arm and awareness under center give him the chance to drive the ball downfield and hit his speedy receivers.

Malik Willis is also one of, if not, the only quarterback in this draft that can consistently work the quarterback draw. Liberty has designed a number of plays that allow him to run directly off of the snap and fight for large gains.

The other component that could be a major selling feature for Willis is how he could pair with Denver’s run game. If Willis is able to manage a tandem of Williams and Gordon/Boone, then the Broncos’ offense could do some serious damage.

It’s also worth noting that this isn’t Pat Shurmur’s normal style of offense. Usually, you see Shurmur opt to go with a vertical style of play. However, as the season has progressed, the former Giants head coach has adjusted to a run-first offense. If kept for next year, this could play in Willis’ favor.

Overall, Willis could bring an interesting scheme to the Mile High city. The only factor that will decide any of these options is what George Paton feels is best for his young core.