The Denver Broncos have reportedly been doing a lot of background work on possible quarterback trades.

Michael Lombardi of The Athletic reported Tuesday on the Pat McAfee Show he thought the Broncos were finalizing a deal last week before negotiations broke down. Lombardi also noted the idea Drew Lock is the franchise quarterback is essentially null and void.

It is not a surprise the Broncos are looking for upgrades under center after the year Lock had in his sophomore showing.

Lock went 4-9 in his 13 starts. He completed under 58 percent of his passes and tied for the NFL lead in interceptions (15). The numbers were unsavory enough and the decision-making was lackluster as well. Lock had a tendency to take unwarranted deep shots, often trying to hit the home run or make plays that simply were not there.

Denver might be after something more solid. Obviously, Houston Texans star Deshaun Watson would be the ideal target.

Troy Rench of Denver7 reported the Broncos plan to pursue Watson in the event he is made available. Jeremy Fowler of ESPN reported last week Watson is “intrigued by” the idea of joining the Broncos.

However, the Texans have shown no indication they are ready or willing to trade Watson in spite of his demands, a message they have reiterated time and again.

This would seem to beg the question: who were the Broncos trying to acquire?

It remains to be seen how Denver will address the quarterback position this offseason, but it appears to be high on the priority list.