In a week filled with quarterback-centric discussions, the Denver Broncos have been diligently conducting formal interviews with several potential stars of the game in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft. Head coach Sean Payton, general manager George Paton, and a host of other team representatives have been personally meeting with these gifted quarterbacks at the NFL combine in Indianapolis.

Each team is allotted 18 minutes per formal interview, giving the Broncos a short but valuable window to gauge the talents and personalities of these aspiring signal-callers. Alongside Payton and Paton, offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi and quarterbacks coach Davis Webb have also been actively participating in these interviews.

For Payton, the opportunity to establish a personal connection with the candidates has been of utmost importance. "The first thing is getting to put a name with a face," he explained. "You spend time with the questions, and they'll be football-related. These are all pieces of the equation that I think are necessary."

Among the notable prospects the Broncos have met with are USC's Caleb Williams, LSU's Jayden Daniels, North Carolina's Drake Maye, and South Carolina's Spencer Rattler. Despite varying backgrounds and levels of experience, each quarterback expressed excitement and admiration toward the Broncos' coaching staff, particularly Payton.

Multiple candidates commented on Payton's reputation as one of the great offensive minds in the game. They relished the opportunity to discuss football strategy and technique with him, recognizing the potential for immense growth under his guidance. Additionally, Davis Webb was singled out as an exceptional quarterback coach, embodying the perfect mix of knowledge and passion for the position.

The quarterbacks unanimously described their experiences with the Broncos as "awesome," "great," and "a blessing." They commended the engaging energy of coach Payton, as well as the rigorous nature of the interviews. By intentionally analyzing their weaknesses and evaluating their accountability, the Broncos aimed to assess the candidates' mental fortitude in the face of adversity.

Several of the prospects, including one who mentioned their shared Illinois roots, expressed their eagerness and honor at the prospect of playing under Payton's leadership. They acknowledged the rigorous nature of professional football and recognized the opportunity to learn from one of the best minds in the game.

With Pro Day visits and private workout visits scheduled in the upcoming weeks, these formal interviews at the NFL combine have served as critical initial interactions between the Broncos and their potential future quarterback. As the draft draws nearer, it remains to be seen which quarterback will ultimately don the Broncos' jersey and have the privilege of working with this esteemed coaching staff.