The Denver Broncos and Russell Wilson appear to be headed for an offseason separation. Following an impressive turnaround after a rough start to the season, it seems the team is set to go in another direction.
This was highlighted by the decision to bench Wilson in favor of Jarrett Stidham for the final two games of the year, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. But going even one step further than that, multiple NFL insiders highlighted that this is likely the end of the road regarding Wilson’s tenure with the Broncos.
This, pretty clearly, is it for Russell Wilson in Denver. Broncos are on the hook for $39 million in guarantees in 2024. However, hanging on to him into 2024 would mean $37 million vesting for 2025.
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) December 27, 2023
So it's $39 million buyout this offseason or $37 million buyout next offseason. https://t.co/EL9DS4dj9t
If the Denver Broncos bench Russell Wilson for Jarrett Stidham, this is a clear indication that they will move on from Wilson after this season. If this happens, this will also tell you Bronco's ownership has full trust in Sean Payton.
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) December 27, 2023
Wilson, who spent 10 seasons with the Seattle Seahawks, played in 30 games for the Broncos. He’s posted an 11–19 record while throwing for 6,594 yards, 42 touchdowns and 19 interceptions.
If the Broncos opt to move on from Wilson, they’ll be stuck with $39 million of his contract next year. To make matters worse, if Wilson doesn’t play for the Broncos next season, it’ll mean he didn’t play a single snap under the five-year, $245 million extension he signed when joining the team, as SI’s Matt Verderame highlighted.
The Broncos aren't wrong for benching Wilson to make sure he passes a physical, but man, that's one of the worst trades/contracts in NFL history.
— Matt Verderame (@MattVerderame) December 27, 2023
Consider this ... Wilson signed a five-year, $245M extension upon his arrival in Denver.
He never played a down on it.
