Things are looking up for the Denver Broncos after an underwhelming recent history, and quarterback Russell Wilson has been tipped to enjoy an elevated season by new signing Mike McGlinchey.
After winning the Super Bowl in 2015, the Broncos have failed to make a postseason appearance ever since. Long gone are the days of Peyton Manning and Von Miller in Denver, but there is a sense of belief within the franchise once more after a big spending offseason.
Wilson failed to hit the ground running as expected last season, but will now link up with new head coach Sean Payton who's brought in former New Orleans Saints receiver Marquez Callaway to help out. Wilson is expected to be fit and ready after undergoing arthroscopic surgery on his right knee, and McGlinchey is excited for what's to come.
Wilson went under the knife following the 2022 season, but fears that his recovery would take a substantial amount of time were put aside recently. According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, it was a 'minor cleanup' on a knee that's bothered Wilson for a number of years.
With the quarterback seemingly fixed up and ready to go, there's a sense of optimism about the Wilson-Payton partnership, one that new signing McGlinchey is excited for. The former San Francisco 49ers right tackle agreed to a five-year deal worth a reported $87.5million (£71.5m) with over $50m (£40.75m) guaranteed to join the Broncos in March.
McGlinchey has faced Wilson many times while the quarterback was with the Seattle Seahawks, and has seen his ability close up. But now he will be on Wilson's side for the first time, and thinks the quarterback will enjoy a good season.
"I’m very familiar with Russ, playing against him twice a year for four years," McGlinchey said In an interview with Mike Klis of Denver’s KUSA. "He’s broken my heart numerous times. I know his game, I know what he’s capable of.
"He’s a Hall of Famer. And he’s capable of doing great things and winning a lot of games in this league like he did for a decade in Seattle. And I think coach Payton and the situation we’re going into is going to elevate his game even more.
"I know last season didn’t go the way Broncos Country wanted but I think things are going to be a lot different. I’m very excited to get to work with Russ and see what we can do together and how we can make a splash in the AFC."
