Russell Wilson is under contract with the Denver Broncos through the 2028 season and the team has claimed the quarterback could remain with the team in 2024.
While it’s possible that Wilson could stay in Denver for another year, the two sides seem to be headed for a split this offseason. The Broncos would probably love to trade Wilson, but it might be difficult to find a team willing to trade for his current contract.
After being benched with two games remaining last season, Wilson revealed that Denver previously threatened to bench him earlier in the season if he did not revise his contract. It was a messy end to the season for Wilson and the team, who have not directly denied threatening to bench Wilson over his contract.
Broncos owner/CEO Greg Penner even admitted that some elements of the Wilson situation could have been handled differently. If the relationship is now fractured beyond repair, Wilson has already played his last down in Denver.
Wilson expects to be released by the Broncos in March before his 2025 salary becomes guaranteed. We should get more clarity on his status next month because the NFL’s new league year will spark action. The most likely scenario is Wilson being released by Denver. Assuming he’s cut, where will Wilson land in 2024? Here’s a quick look at 10 teams who might be interested.
1
Pittsburgh Steelers
Mason Rudolph is about to become an unrestricted free agent and the Steelers have clearly lost confidence in Kenny Pickett. Pittsburgh won’t pick until 20th in the draft so they won’t be able to land one of the top QB prospects in this year’s draft. Wilson could be a short-term solution and/or a mentor if the Steelers draft a QB in April.
2
Atlanta Falcons
After bouncing between Desmond Ridder and Taylor Heinicke in 2023, the Falcons seem likely to select a QB at No. 8 overall in the draft. Wilson could give Atlanta a veteran presence in the QB room and begin 2024 as a starter while the Falcons develop a rookie.
3
New England Patriots
It’s clear that neither Bailey Zappe nor Mac Jones will last long in New England. The Patriots are expected to pick at QB at No. 3 overall and, once again, Wilson could prove to be a good mentor for a rookie while serving as a short-term starter.
4
Las Vegas Raiders
The Raiders are expected to part ways with Jimmy Garoppolo this offseason. Las Vegas could pair Aidan O’Connell with a rookie (the Raiders pick 13th overall), but Wilson might like an opportunity to play against the Broncos twice a season. They’ll be a team to watch in the Wilson sweepstakes.
5
Minnesota Vikings
Kirk Cousins and Josh Dobbs are both scheduled to become free agents in March. Minnesota could pick at QB at No. 11 overall in April, in which case Wilson could once again have an opportunity to mentor a rookie.
6
New York Giants
Will the Giants stick with Daniel Jones in 2024? Will they draft a QB with the fifth overall pick? New York will undoubtedly add competition to the QB room this offseason and Wilson could be a candidate for the job.
7
Chicago Bears
Wilson could push Justin Fields in a QB competition or compete with the No. 1 overall pick if Chicago decides to draft a QB at that spot. Regardless of whether or not they keep Fields, the Bears could use a veteran QB in 2024.
8
Washington Commanders
Assuming they don’t view Sam Howell as their long-term solution at QB, the Commanders will likely draft a QB at No. 2 overall. Sensing a trend? Wilson would be a good veteran option for a team developing a young QB in 2024.
9
Indianapolis Colts
Gardner Minshew is set to become a free agent in March and while the Colts hope Anthony Richardson will be able to put his injury woes behind him, Indy would be wise to have a proven veteran on the roster in 2024.
10
Tennessee Titans
Ryan Tannehill seems unlikely to return in 2024. The Titans could bring in Wilson to compete with Will Levis this summer.
