The Russell Wilson era has officially come to a close for the Denver Broncos after just two seasons. What lies ahead for the Broncos once Wilson’s release becomes effective on the new league year?
Denver Broncos release Russell Wilson, effective March 13
The news that everybody was waiting for came on Monday afternoon, as the Denver Broncos officially announced that they would be releasing quarterback Russell Wilson effective on March 13th when the new league year kicks in.
“We spoke with Russell Wilson today to inform him of his release after the start of the league year,” Broncos GM George Paton and head coach Sean Payton said in a joint statement. “On behalf of the Broncos, we thank Russell for his contributions and dedication to our team and community while wishing him the best as he continues his career. As we move forward, we are focused on building the strongest team possible for the 2024 season and beyond. We are excited to improve this offseason and will have the flexibility to get better through the draft and free agency.”
Oddly enough, two years ago around this time it was announced that the Broncos would execute a historic trade for the former Seahawks franchise quarterback. There was optimism and excitement in Denver when Wilson was traded to the team, but nobody expected things would turn out the way they did.
In 2022, for Wilson’s debut season, the Broncos were abysmal in every facet of their offensive operation under Nathaniel Hackett. Wilson struggled mightily in Hackett’s system, which led to the former Broncos head coach being fired before he could even finish his first season.
Denver’s newly acquired quarterback threw for a career-low 16 touchdowns compared to 11 interceptions. The Broncos went all in on acquiring Sean Payton to be their next head coach with hope in mind that Wilson would get back to who he was.
In 2023, Wilson rebounded in a big way, accounting for 29 total touchdowns (26 passing and four rushing) and eight interceptions. Ultimately, Payton didn’t feel like Wilson could help him achieve the goals that he has leading the Broncos.
It’s unfortunate that the dynamic didn’t work between the two, and ultimately the Broncos trade two years ago will go down as one of the worst value trades in NFL history.
Business is business and both sides are now looking at opportunities elsewhere. Wilson will have a variety of options to choose from in free agency, while the Broncos may very well take a swing in this year’s NFL Draft for a potential franchise quarterback, whoever that may be.
One thing is for certain, the Broncos offseason roller coaster has just begun.
