Ahead of Schedule Rookie for the Denver Broncos

When the Denver Broncos selected cornerback Ja’Quan McMillian in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL Draft (162nd overall), expectations were modest. Scouts praised his speed and ball skills but noted he’d need time to adjust to the NFL’s physicality and complex defensive schemes—likely spending his rookie year on special teams or the practice squad. But just 13 weeks into the season, McMillian has shattered those projections: he’s played 65% of the Broncos’ defensive snaps, recorded 3 interceptions (tied for the team lead), and become a reliable starter opposite All-Pro Pat Surtain II. For a Broncos secondary that entered the season with depth concerns, McMillian’s accelerated development has been a game-changer. Ahead of Schedule Rookie for the Denver Broncos explores how this unheralded prospect outpaced expectations, his impact on the defense, and why he’s quickly becoming a fan favorite in Denver.

Ahead of Schedule Rookie for the Denver Broncos begins with McMillian’s path from small-school standout to NFL surprise. A native of Mobile, Alabama, McMillian played his college football at Sam Houston State, a Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) program, where he starred as a three-year starter. He finished his college career with 12 interceptions, 35 pass deflections, and a reputation for shutting down opposing receivers—but his small-school status and 5-foot-10 frame made him a polarizing prospect. The Broncos drafted him with the hope he’d develop into a nickel cornerback by his second season, but McMillian had other plans. “I never believed the ‘small-school’ or ‘too short’ narratives,” McMillian said in a post-practice interview. “I just wanted a chance to prove I belonged, and I worked every day to make that happen.” His work ethic stood out immediately: he was the first defensive back in the facility each morning, staying late to study film with veterans and refine his technique. By the end of training camp, he’d impressed coaches enough to earn a spot on the 53-man roster—an early sign he was ahead of schedule.

Another key reason Ahead of Schedule Rookie for the Denver Broncos is McMillian’s breakout performances that cemented his role in the defense. His first big moment came in Week 4 against the Chicago Bears: with the Broncos trailing 17-14 in the third quarter, he intercepted Bears quarterback Justin Fields in the end zone, stopping a potential touchdown drive and sparking a Broncos comeback. He followed that with a two-interception game in Week 8 against the Las Vegas Raiders, including a game-sealing pick in the final minute that preserved a 27-24 win. “That Raiders game was when we knew Ja’Quan was special,” said Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph. “Rookies don’t make those kinds of plays in pressure situations—not usually. He’s got a calmness about him, a football IQ that’s way beyond his years. He’s not just athletic—he’s a student of the game.” McMillian’s success isn’t just statistical: he’s also held opposing receivers to a 52tch rate when targeted, one of the lowest marks among NFL rookies. His ability to cover both slot receivers and outside threats has given Joseph flexibility to design more aggressive defensive schemes, a luxury the Broncos didn’t have before McMillian’s emergence.

A critical aspect of Ahead of Schedule Rookie for the Denver Broncos is how McMillian’s growth has addressed a longstanding need for the Broncos’ secondary. Entering the 2024 season, the Broncos’ cornerback depth was thin: behind Surtain, they relied on veteran Damarri Mathis, who struggled with consistency in 2023, and undrafted free agents. McMillian’s rise has not only solidified the No. 2 cornerback spot but also allowed Mathis to shift to nickel cornerback—a role he’s excelled in, reducing the Broncos’ vulnerability in passing downs. For the Denver Broncos, this depth has been crucial during a stretch of tough games against high-powered offenses like the Chiefs and Browns. “Ja’Quan didn’t just fill a spot—he made our entire secondary better,” said Surtain, who has taken McMillian under his wing. “He asks great questions, he listens, and he applies what he learns every week. Having him opposite me means defenses can’t just focus on stopping one player. We’re a tandem now, and that’s a problem for opposing quarterbacks.” McMillian’s impact has also been felt on special teams: he’s recorded 4 tackles on kickoff coverage, showing the versatility that made the Broncos draft him in the first place.

Another important element of Ahead of Schedule Rookie for the Denver Broncos is the mentorship and support that have fueled McMillian’s success. From Day 1, Surtain made it a priority to help McMillian adjust to the NFL, inviting him to film sessions, working with him on press coverage technique, and sharing tips on how to read quarterbacks. Veterans like safety Justin Simmons have also played a role, teaching McMillian how to communicate with the rest of the defense and stay calm in high-pressure situations. “I couldn’t have done this without those guys,” McMillian said. “Pat and Justin took me in, showed me the ropes. They didn’t treat me like a rookie—they treated me like a teammate, and that gave me confidence.” For the Denver Broncos, this mentorship culture is a key part of player development, and McMillian’s success is a testament to its effectiveness. “We invest in our rookies, not just with draft picks but with time and guidance,” said Broncos head coach Sean Payton. “Ja’Quan took advantage of every resource we gave him, and that’s why he’s ahead of schedule. He’s a example for every young player in our locker room.”

Wrapping up Ahead of Schedule Rookie for the Denver Broncos is what McMillian’s accelerated growth means for the Broncos’ future. At just 22 years old, he’s already a core piece of the Broncos’ defense—a rare find in the fifth round. His success gives the Broncos flexibility in future drafts and free agency: they won’t need to spend a high draft pick or big free-agent contract on a cornerback, allowing them to focus on other needs like offensive line depth or a backup quarterback. For fans, McMillian’s story is a reminder of why they love football: it’s a sport where underdogs can rise, where hard work can overcome long odds. “Ja’Quan is everything you want in a Bronco,” said Mike Torres, a lifelong fan who attended the Week 8 Raiders game. “He’s humble, he’s tough, and he plays with heart. We didn’t expect much from him, but he’s given us so much more. He’s a star in the making.” As the Broncos push for a playoff spot, McMillian will continue to play a key role—proof that sometimes the best investments are the ones no one sees coming. Ahead of Schedule Rookie for the Denver Broncos isn’t just a story about one player’s success—it’s a story about the Broncos’ commitment to developing talent, and how that commitment can turn a late-round pick into a franchise cornerstone.