Paton’s history, his stated willingness to explore any potential deal, the Broncos’ current spot at No. You can still win, but obviously we’re looking.” “We all want the franchise quarterback, and that’s the number one goal, trying to draft and develop or acquire (a quarterback) any way you can,” Paton said, before adding: “You can still win if you don’t have the franchise guy.
The Vikings never found a true franchise quarterback during that stretch - an argument can be made that Cousins will have fit that distinction when all is said and done - but that didn’t stop Minnesota from pursuing multiple avenues to find winning quarterbacks. The point is the Vikings, during Paton’s tenure as the assistant general manager, pivoted in numerous directions in the search of competent play at the position. Then, he was injured early in the 2017 season, opening the door for Keenum, who had been signed as a free agent that offseason to serve as Bradford’s backup and provide (ultimately needed) insurance for a starter who had dealt with knee injuries throughout his career. Bradford had a strong 2016 season, though the Vikings finished 8-8 and missed the playoffs.
Not included on that list is Sam Bradford, the quarterback Paton and the Vikings traded a first-round pick to the Eagles to acquire in 2016, after Bridgewater - a Pro Bowler the prior season - suffered a gruesome knee injury in training camp.