Payton: 'Realistic' that Broncos could trade up for QB

Sean Payton says there's a "realistic" possibility that the Denver Broncos could trade up to select a quarterback in April's draft, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

"It's good to be (Arizona Cardinals general manager Monti Ossenfort) right now," Payton added.

Denver currently owns the No. 12 pick.

The Chicago Bears, Washington Commanders, and New England Patriots are all expected to select signal-callers if they retain picks Nos. 1 through 3, respectively, when the draft kicks off April 25. The Cardinals, who have Kyler Murray, own the fourth overall selection.

Denver would likely need to trade up to pick one of Drake Maye, Jayden Daniels, or J.J. McCarthy. Bo Nix and Michael Penix Jr. could also be in play for the Broncos in the first round.

Denver is looking for a new passer after cutting Russell Wilson earlier this offseason. Wilson started the Broncos' first 15 games last year but was benched for Jarrett Stidham to close out the campaign.

Stidham went 1-1 while throwing for 496 yards, a pair of touchdowns, and an interception on 60.6% passing in his two starts. That was enough for him to earn the right to compete for the starting job.

"He is going to compete for that position," Payton said, according to NFL Network's James Palmer. "I know he's anxious and excited to do that, and I'm sure there will be other candidates that will be competing with him."