The Denver Broncos were eyeing a Super Bowl when they traded for Russell Wilson in March 2022. However, they failed to even reach the playoffs over the last two seasons. The 2023 season showcased promises for a while, when the quarterback led the Broncos to a five-game winning streak.
However, things started to fall apart as the Broncos benched Wilson suddenly. The drama continued and releasing him seemed to be the impending solution. The signal-caller’s decision to sell his Denver house solidified the potential move. The team has now granted him talk with his future suitors.
Broncos allegedly let Russell Wilson talk to other teams
The Broncos have granted Russell Wilson the opportunity to explore options with other teams before his imminent release, reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter. This decision adds a new quarterback to the upcoming free-agency market, which already features notable names like Baker Mayfield, Ryan Tannehill, and Kirk Cousins.
Before free agency begins next week, the Broncos have given soon-to-be-released quarterback Russell Wilson permission to immediately begin speaking and meeting with other teams in their home cities, per sources. Wilson’s free agency begins now. pic.twitter.com/PyXei2q6Tm
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 6, 2024
The Broncos officially announced on Monday that they would release Wilson after the commencement of the 2024 league year at 4 p.m. ET next Wednesday. This move followed a joint statement from general manager George Paton and head coach Sean Payton expressing gratitude for Wilson’s two seasons with the team. Wilson himself posted a lengthy post to convey his feelings.
The signal-caller’s release marks the end of a two-year stint with the Broncos, initiated by a blockbuster trade with the Seattle Seahawks. The Broncos parted ways with quarterback Drew Lock, defensive tackle Shelby Harris, and tight end Noah Fant along with multiple high-round draft picks, to secure Wilson’s services. However, the team struggled to find consistent success under Wilson’s leadership.
The coaching shake-up in Denver, with the departure of Nathaniel Hackett and the arrival of Sean Payton last offseason, aimed to rejuvenate Wilson’s career. He showcased a solid individual performance, amassing 3,070 yards, 26 touchdowns, and eight interceptions, but the Broncos finished the 2023 season with a 7-8 record. His legacy with the Broncos now ends with 6,594 passing yards, 42 touchdowns, and 19 interceptions.
Why did Russell Wilson get released from the Broncos?
Russell Wilson’s release lies primarily in the complex web of financial obligations because of his hefty contract. Prior to even taking a single snap for the Broncos, he inked a massive five-year, $245 million extension. However, with great financial reward comes equally great risk, as evidenced by the clauses embedded within the QB’s contract.
The veteran would be entitled to an additional $37 million in guaranteed money if he couldn’t pass a physical by early March. It was a provision that undoubtedly contributed to the Broncos’ decision-making process. The franchise sensed the financial burden looming on the horizon, and made a strategic move to increase its financial flexibility by parting ways with him before the deadline.
The #Broncos have informed Russell Wilson he is being released. He becomes a fascinating option as a starting QB. https://t.co/TmvtdY4UEj
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 4, 2024
Attempts were made to renegotiate the terms of the contract, with the Broncos seeking to defer the injury guarantee trigger date to alleviate the financial strain. The discussions even involved NFLPA, but no amendments were agreed upon.
The Broncos will now have to absorb a $39 million hit, and the decision to release Russell Wilson incurs a whopping $85 million in total dead salary cap over the next two years.
