Skip to main content

Broncos trade up with Seahawks to draft QB Paxton Lynch

The Broncos traded up to draft Paxton Lynch.
  • Author:
  • Publish date:

Get breaking news and SI’s biggest stories instantly. Download the new Sports Illustrated app (iOS or Android) and personalize your experience by following your favorite teams and SI writers.

The Denver Broncos have moved up from the No. 31 draft pick in a trade with the Seattle Seahawks for the No. 26 pick.

The Broncos picked Memphis quarterback Paxton Lynch. Lynch finished last season with 3,776 yard and 28 touchdowns. He was the third quarterback selected in the draft behind Jared Goff (No. 1 to Los Angeles) and Carson Wentz (No. 2 to the Eagles).

Lynch got word of his selection while at a bowling alley with friends and family.

• Join SI.com’s football experts live as they react to all the surprises of the 2016 NFL draft

He will battle against Mark Sanchez and Trevor Simien for the starting quarterback job. John Elway told local news that this ends the team's pursuit of Colin Kaepernick.

The Cowboys also had interest in Lynch.

The defending champions will open the season against the Carolina Panthers on September 8 for a rematch of Super Bowl 50.