Lack of QB clarity could hamper Broncos HC search

The same wealth of young talent on the offensive side of the ball that could attract a quarterback like Aaron Rodgers or Russell Wilson to Denver likely will also draw the attention of candidates for the Broncos’ head coach role.

Should the team move on from head coach Vic Fangio after three seasons, ESPN’s Bill Barnwell writes that the Broncos are among the most attractive destinations for a play caller this upcoming offseason — behind just the Minnesota Vikings.

However, despite a Denver team “teeming with talent on offense,” whoever takes over the reins of the Broncos will inherit a “team crying out for a major upgrade at quarterback.”

“The next coach doesn’t necessarily have to be an offensive mind, but it would help if the Broncos hired someone who might convince Russell Wilson to waive his no-trade clause or push Rodgers to head to Denver,” Barnwell writes.

“The playmakers on offense will appeal to the various hot offensive coaches who are on the market, but it’s different without a quarterback in the mix. Lock is not viable, and Bridgewater is a free agent.”

Denver has wide receivers Tim Patrick, Courtland Sutton and Jerry Jeudy, running back Javonte Williams and tight ends Albert Okwuegbunam and Noah Fant under contract for the foreseeable future. Yet, despite its offensive arsenal, the Broncos rank 19th in passing offense.

Also, an area of concern for prospective head coaches could be Denver’s ownership situation.

At the beginning of training camp, Broncos president and CEO Joe Ellis said that the club intends to have a timeline of ownership transition — whether it be to a child of late-owner Pat Bowlen or a third party — shortly after the season concludes.

“If stable ownership and a quarterback were in place, this would be one of the more desirable jobs in the NFL,” Barnwell writes.