Broncos speaking with former Penn State QB before draft

Clifford is a projected Day 3 pick, per Klis, so he's probably not a future franchise QB. Yet it's notable because the Broncos are looking into the position before the draft.

NBC Sports' Peter King speculated that recently signed backup QB Jarrett Stidham could step in if Wilson's struggles persist.  

"If Wilson by midseason is having a similarly disastrous season to his first one in Denver, new HC Sean Payton won't have to punt on the season. He'll have an intriguing backup QB waiting in the wings," wrote King. 

Stidham, 26, impressed in his first career start in Week 17 last season, throwing for 365 yards and three TDs in a 37-34 overtime loss to the 49ers. However, it's rash to declare a QB controversy in Denver because Stidham only has two starts in three seasons.

Nevertheless, even suggesting an inexperienced backup could take over showcases Wilson's fall. After Denver traded two first-rounders (and more) for the former Seattle star, he ranked 31st in completion percentage (60.5) and tied for 19th in passing TDs (16), both career lows. 

Aside from poor on-field play, he reportedly created dysfunction by having perks like a personal office and too much influence on the offense. Payton already revoked these privileges, and Wilson potentially faces a make-or-break year.

An unnamed source told NBC Sports' Matthew Berry, "I don't think Payton likes Russ. He's got one year to prove himself, or he will move on."

Denver can't cut Wilson since his contract has six years remaining and no cap savings until 2025, per OverTheCap. Yet it's lost so much faith it's starting to think about replacements.