The Denver Broncos informed quarterback Russell Wilson on Monday afternoon that he will be released after the new league year begins on March 13.
Shortly after the news broke, Wilson posted a statement about his tenure with the Broncos and what’s next for him.
“Broncos Country, Thank You!” Wilson wrote. “Over these last two years, you have welcomed my family and me with open arms and have embraced us as members of the Denver community. This city will always hold a special place in my heart. Our family grew here, we made countless memories and friendships, and formed relationships that will last a lifetime.”
Thank You Broncos Country 🙏🏾 - #3 pic.twitter.com/3IoVheYVyI
— Russell Wilson (@DangeRussWilson) March 4, 2024
Wilson was expected to be released by the Broncos this offseason, especially after the quarterback was benched for the final two games of the 2023 season.
The 35-year-old signed a five-year contract extension worth a potential $245 million after he was acquired in a 2022 blockbuster trade with the Seattle Seahawks. Now, the Broncos will incur approximately $85 million in dead money against the salary cap for releasing the quarterback. It’s the largest dead cap hit in NFL history.
Wilson endured the roughest season of his career after joining the Broncos in ’22. That season, he completed just 60.5% of his passes for 3,524 yards with 16 touchdown passes and 11 interceptions. He improved those numbers in ’23, completing 66.4% of his passes for 3,070 yards with 26 touchdown passes and eight picks, but it wasn’t enough to keep him under center in Denver.
We’ve notified QB Russell Wilson that he will be released after the league year begins March 13.
— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) March 4, 2024
A statement from GM George Paton and HC Sean Payton: pic.twitter.com/EJO5mNMjew
