Introduction:
In a surprising turn of events, the Denver Broncos have benched star quarterback Russell Wilson in favor of backup Jarrett Stidham, sparking rumors of an imminent release. Reports suggest that Wilson himself expects to be cut by the Broncos in March, making him a potential headline in the 2024 NFL free agent class.
The Benching and Contract Dispute:
The decision to bench Wilson comes as the Broncos, with a 7-8 record, face a slim 8% chance of making the playoffs with just two weeks left in the regular season. However, the move is not solely based on the team’s performance, as Wilson’s contract and a looming trigger date for injury guarantees play a significant role.
Wilson, guaranteed $39 million next season, would be owed an additional $37 million in injury guarantees for 2025 if he remains on the roster by March 17, 2024. The Broncos, facing a challenging financial situation, attempted to negotiate with Wilson in late October, proposing to bench him for the remainder of the season if he deferred the injury guarantee trigger date. Despite involvement from lawyers, including the NFLPA, no changes were made to the contract.
Coach’s Perspective:
Head coach Sean Payton addressed the decision, emphasizing the team’s need to spark the offense as the primary reason for the quarterback change. Payton dismissed the notion that Wilson’s contract was the driving force behind the move, stating, “Sure, in our game today there are economics and all those things, but the number one push behind this… is to get a spark offensively.”
Financial Ramifications:
The Broncos, having invested heavily in Wilson, face significant financial consequences if they decide to release him. Releasing Wilson before March 17 would result in a staggering $85 million in dead cap money for 2024. Alternatively, a post-June 1 designation would incur $35.4 million in dead money for 2024 and $49.6 million for 2025. This dilemma highlights the financial risks associated with high-stakes player acquisitions in the NFL.
Disappointment in Denver:
The Broncos made a bold move in acquiring Wilson from the Seattle Seahawks in March of 2022, giving him a lucrative five-year, $245 million extension. However, the gamble has not paid off, with the team posting a disappointing 4-11 record with Wilson under center and a 5-12 overall record in 2022. Despite the hope that the addition of Coach Payton would help Wilson regain his Pro Bowl form, Denver’s offensive struggles persist, ranking 16th in scoring, 20th on third down, 22nd in the red zone, 25th in passing, and 31st in goal-to-go situations, according to ESPN.
Looking Ahead:
As the uncertainty surrounding Wilson’s future with the Broncos unfolds, the team, fans, and the entire NFL community await further developments. Wilson, remaining tight-lipped about the situation, expressed on social media that he is “looking forward to what’s next.” Whether he stays with the Broncos or becomes a sought-after free agent, the upcoming months promise to bring significant changes to the quarterback landscape in the NFL.
FAQs:
Q1: Why was Russell Wilson benched by the Denver Broncos?
A1: The decision to bench Wilson was driven by the team’s need to spark the offense, according to head coach Sean Payton. Wilson’s contract, including a looming trigger date for injury guarantees, also played a significant role in the decision.
Q2: What are the financial implications for the Denver Broncos if they release Russell Wilson?
A2: Releasing Wilson before March 17 would result in a substantial $85 million in dead cap money for 2024. A post-June 1 designation would incur $35.4 million in dead money for 2024 and $49.6 million for 2025.
Q3: How has Russell Wilson’s performance been with the Denver Broncos in the 2022 season?
A3: Wilson’s tenure with the Broncos has been disappointing, with the team posting a 4-11 record with him under center and a 5-12 overall record in 2022. Despite improved numbers compared to the previous season, Denver continues to face offensive struggles in various key areas.
In conclusion, the unfolding drama around Russell Wilson’s uncertain future with the Denver Broncos adds a layer of intrigue to the NFL landscape. As fans eagerly await the resolution of this high-stakes situation, the Broncos face tough decisions that will undoubtedly shape the team’s trajectory in the coming seasons.