The Denver Broncos continue their active search for quarterback talent ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft, recently taking a virtual step forward by meeting with a draft prospect who could figure into their plans as a developmental player.
On Wednesday, March 25, the Broncos held a Zoom meeting with Rutgers quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis, according to NFL insider Aaron Wilson, reporting for KPRC-TV. This pre-draft virtual meeting is part of the team's standard evaluation process as they work to build their draft board -- particularly focusing on prospects projected to be selected in the later rounds or brought in as developmental assets.
Denver's quarterback situation remains a primary focus for General Manager George Paton and Head Coach Sean Payton. Despite recent investments and changes, the franchise has yet to find a long-term solution under center. Paton and Payton emphasize competition and depth, making the prospect of adding a young, raw passer who can develop in the system a logical approach.
Athan Kaliakmanis, standing 6-foot-4 with a strong arm, fits the profile of a developmental quarterback prospect. Though not widely projected as a high-round pick, Kaliakmanis offers intriguing traits that scouts find attractive. He began his college career at Minnesota, where over two seasons he delivered moments of promise, including a standout 319-yard, three-touchdown game against Nebraska in 2022. Seeking a greater role, Kaliakmanis transferred to Rutgers in 2024.
At Rutgers, he ran a pro-style offense that required him to operate both under center and from shotgun, providing valuable experience for a potential NFL role. His final collegiate season showcased flashes of the upside NFL teams covet--strong arm strength, the ability to drive the ball into tight windows, and touch on deep balls. Yet, as with many young quarterbacks, consistency and decision-making under pressure emerged as areas needing further growth.
From Denver's perspective, Kaliakmanis is not expected to contribute immediately as a starting quarterback. Rather, he projects as a candidate for a QB3 role, ideally to develop behind the Broncos' current options. Sean Payton's offense demands quick processing, precise timing, and sound decisions; a player like Kaliakmanis would be given time to learn the complexities of the system without the immediate pressure to perform on game day.
Historically, Payton has not shied away from selecting mid-to-late round quarterbacks and investing in their development, whether to groom future contributors or assets that could be exchanged. This virtual meeting indicates the Broncos' evaluators and coaches see enough raw potential in Kaliakmanis to consider him as part of their developmental plans.
The 2026 draft quarterback class is deep, with a range of prospects--from early-round talents to intriguing developmental projects. Given Denver's likely focus on other roster positions early in the draft, finding value in later rounds is critical. Meeting with Kaliakmanis underscores the Broncos' thorough approach to scouting all potential quarterback prospects, leaving no stone unturned.
It is important to clarify that this was a reported meeting, not a commitment or indication that Kaliakmanis will be drafted by Denver. The team will meet with numerous prospects in the coming weeks, and such meetings are one of many data points in the draft evaluation process. Nevertheless, this early interaction reflects the Broncos' active groundwork at the quarterback position.
As the draft draws closer, more private workouts, visit reports, and talent evaluations will emerge. The conversation with Athan Kaliakmanis represents one piece of the puzzle, providing Broncos fans a behind-the-scenes look at the detailed and methodical process shaping their franchise's future.
Should the Broncos select Kaliakmanis in the late rounds, this virtual meeting on March 25 will stand as an early indication of their interest and investment in his development. For now, it is a testament to Denver's commitment to thoroughly exploring all potential options to secure the quarterback position moving forward.
In summary, the Denver Broncos' pre-draft meeting with Rutgers QB Athan Kaliakmanis highlights the organization's diligent approach to quarterback evaluation. With an eye on long-term growth and roster competition, the Broncos continue to pursue promising young talent as they prepare for the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft.
