The Denver Broncos certainly have one of the best teams in the NFL, and at the heart of it all is QB Bo Nix. The 26-year-old has thrived under the man who drafted him, HC Sean Payton.

However, before selecting the former Oregon star, rumor has it that Payton had their eyes on another QB. Who? Well, none other than the Minnesota Vikings' JJ McCarthy.

In fact, Denver seemed poised to take him at 12, before the Vikings came and snapped him up. Now, two seasons later, it would be safe to say that the Broncos made the better choice. But, what's interesting, is that Sean Payton claimed that he baited the NFC North team into making that decision.

"I was actively involved in trying to pretend that we were moving forward..."

At the time, a lot of people, Vikings fans especially, mocked Payton for this statement. There's no real way of verifying whether or not the former Super Bowl winner actually pulled the old bait and switch, but if true, it's certainly one incredible scheme.

Sean Payton and the Broncos recently confirmed the team's 53-man roster

Last night, teams across the league unveiled their initial 53-man rosters ahead of the new season. Sean Payton and the Denver Broncos were no different.

For the most part there weren't any major surprises, but two decisions raised eyebrows. The first was Denver's decision to cut 2026 draft pick Justin Joly, and second, was parting ways with third year RB, Jaleel McLaughlin.

Both decisions were described by GM George Patton as incredibly difficult to make. That being said, we will only know if they'll live to regret it based on this season's performances.

Written by

Joseph Nithin