George Paton Sends Clear Message on Ja’Quan McMillian’s Broncos Future

Denver Broncos general manager George Paton made it clear this week that Ja’Quan McMillian is a priority.

Speaking Tuesday at the NFL Combine, Paton addressed McMillian’s restricted free agency and left little doubt about the team’s stance.

According to DNVR’s Zac Stevens, Paton said the Broncos “want Ja’Quan McMillian back.”

Paton acknowledged that other teams could call about him. McMillian will enter restricted free agency this offseason, meaning Denver has the right to match any offer sheet he signs elsewhere.

These comments say a lot about how Paton, Payton, and the Denver Broncos organization view him.

Broncos View McMillian as Core Piece

Paton went even further, referring to McMillian as one of the team’s “core players.”

That designation carries weight, especially considering McMillian entered the league as an undrafted free agent and quickly earned a significant role.

McMillian became a key contributor in the Broncos’ secondary over the past two seasons.

His instincts, physicality and competitiveness quickly earned the trust of the coaching staff.

In 2025, McMillian continued to show growth in coverage while also providing value as a tackler and blitzer from the slot. His versatility allowed Denver’s defense to disguise looks and stay aggressive in different packages.

McMillian’s camp echoed the same belief expressed by Paton.

“He’s a proven guy, he’s come in and he’s battled through,” Deryk Gilmore, McMillian’s agent, said to The Denver Post. “They’ve drafted people over him and he’s never complained. He’s embraced the challenge and risen. He loves it there. It’s a great fit. It’s all stuff that we all know.”

The comments reflect the path McMillian has taken in Denver. He has earned his role the hard way, responding to competition and continuing to improve without causing distractions.

What Restricted Free Agency Means for Broncos

As a restricted free agent, McMillian’s future is largely in Denver’s control.

The Broncos can place a tender on him, which would allow them to match any outside offer. Depending on the level of the tender, Denver could also receive draft compensation if they chose not to match.

Paton’s public comments strongly suggest the team intends to prevent things from reaching that point.

Still, his acknowledgment that “teams might call” signals there is legitimate league-wide interest.

The Broncos now face an important decision as they determine the appropriate tender level or explore a longer-term extension that keeps McMillian beyond 2026.

Denver built its resurgence last season on defense. Maintaining that identity means keeping young, ascending players in the building.

By calling McMillian a core piece, Paton made it clear how the organization views him. The Broncos see him as part of their foundation moving forward.

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