The son of a Hall of Fame quarterback is making the rounds in the AFC West, hoping to turn a series of tryouts into a permanent NFL home.
E.J. Warner, the son of Rams legend Kurt Warner, has accepted an invitation to attend the Denver Broncos' rookie minicamp this week, according to NFL Network's Mike Garafolo. This marks his second rookie camp opportunity after he spent the weekend with the Kansas City Chiefs, getting a firsthand look at Andy Reid's system.
Another Shot with a Super Bowl-Winning Coach
Now Warner gets to showcase his skills under Sean Payton, the Broncos' head coach known for his offensive wizardry. Garafolo confirmed the news on social media, writing: “Fresno State QB E.J. Warner has accepted an invite to Broncos rookie camp this week. Warner attended Chiefs rookie camp this past weekend. Sean Payton and Andy Reid getting close looks at the son of @kurt13warner.”
Warner went undrafted out of Fresno State after a college career that spanned three schools. He played at Temple, Rice, and finally the Bulldogs, where he completed 61.6% of his passes for 10,844 yards and 71 touchdowns over four seasons. Last year, he helped lead Fresno State to a 9-4 record and a victory in the Arizona Bowl over Miami (OH).
While Warner's path to the NFL is unconventional, his pedigree and persistence are drawing attention. The Broncos are also dealing with uncertainty at quarterback, as fans are on edge about Bo Nix's recovery from a second ankle surgery, which could open the door for camp invites to make a deeper impression.
Broncos Lock Up Mr. Irrelevant
In other Broncos rookie news, the team signed linebacker Red Murdock—the final pick of the 2026 NFL Draft, also known as Mr. Irrelevant—to a four-year, $4.503 million deal. Murdock, selected 257th overall out of Buffalo, was a second-team All-American and first-team All-MAC honoree last season. He is the first of Denver's seven rookies to officially sign.
As Warner tries to follow in his father's footsteps, he'll need to stand out in a crowded quarterback room. The Broncos have veteran options and a developing Bo Nix, but a strong camp performance could earn Warner a spot on the practice squad or a future opportunity. For now, the son of a legend is taking every chance to prove he belongs.
