Brady Quinn in Denver? It Just Might Work

*Due to a recent post on this site that was taken completely out of context, I feel compelled to note that the following article is meant purely to be my own speculation and opinion, and I have no factual evidence to support that any of the following 'will' happen.*

While many New York Jets' fans are depending on the Cleveland Browns to participate in a three-team trade to acquire Denver Broncos quarterback Jay Cutler, it seems as though the Browns and Broncos may cut a deal on their own. 

As I reported earlier today, ESPN.com's Rumor Central reported that an unnamed NFL executive has confirmed there are "four teams that have expressed interest in [Jay] Cutler, and that number is likely to grow." The source also reported that compensation for Cutler's services would "likely be two first round draft picks, one this year and one next, as their choice of quarterback on the roster."

Despite this "source's" best efforts, they have pretty much given away the potential suitor for Cutler. 

No team other than Cleveland that is supposed to be interested in Cutler has any quarterbacks for the Broncos' "choosing". 

If the trade is to go through, the Broncos would send Cutler to Cleveland in exchange for the fifth overall pick in the draft, as well as Brady Quinn and a likely top ten pick in next year's draft.

How could the Broncos say no, especially after all of the raucous Cutler has caused? 

Let's break down the potential trade for the Broncos, and how it would improve their team.

1.  Brady Quinn

Quinn has only played three games in the NFL and many are still skeptical as to whether or not he is worthy of starting at this level. By that same token, many still believe he has all of the tools to be an elite level quarterback. He definitely does not lack anything physically.

Quinn would benefit greatly from the lack of pressure he would receive as a result of Denver's absolutely dominant offensive line. All-Pro Ryan Clady anchors a line that only allowed 11 sacks in 2008.

Quinn knows the base of Josh McDaniels' offense from his days at Notre Dame, and thus could really flourish in the Mile High City.

2.  First Round pick in 2009 (Fifth Overall)

This would be the highest selection the Broncos have had in the past few decades, and there is no doubt in my mind as to whose name the Broncos would call if they obtained this pick from the Browns: B.J. Raji; Defensive Tackle, Boston College.

The Broncos appear to be banking on the fact that they are going to be able to obtain an elite level nose tackle in the draft, and this pick makes sense. Raji has proven to be the most elite nose tackle available, and currently is projected to go in the top ten, just out of Denver's reach.

This also frees up Denver to use their other first round pick on the best player available.  The team could opt for Georgia running back Knowshon Moreno, USC middle linebacker Rey Maualuga, Ohio State cornerback Malcolm Jenkins, Penn State defensive end Aaron Maybin, or LSU defensive end Tyson Jackson.

3.  First Round pick in 2010 (Selection Unknown)

Cleveland is not anywhere near contender status, but would probably be a six to eight win team with Jay Cutler at the helm.

The Broncos would likely be picking somewhere in the top 15 with this pick, and a high selection likely paired with whatever pick they get could enable them to move up in the draft to take USC safety Taylor Mays, who I really hoped would come out this off-season.

This trade makes a ton of sense for Cleveland who thinks they have two starting quarterbacks, and if you think that, you really have none. Cutler would bring back the offense from 2007, and would have a good relationship with Braylon Edwards. 

One player that may need to be included on Denver's side is tight end Tony Scheffler, who recently got off his high horse and showed up to voluntary camp for the Broncos.  Scheffler and Cutler are "BFF's", and would fit in well with the Mangini offense.

As much as Denver fans hate to see Cutler leave, and trust me, it pains me, this deal would be the best for the team. 

With Denver, Brady Quinn could succeed. With two first round picks in the next two drafts, the Broncos would be in great shape for the future. 

Maybe Jay Cutler leaving town is truly the best thing for Denver.