The least likely option currently is for Wilson and the Broncos to reconcile their differences and continue their relationship for a third season. Despite the benching, the Broncos have not finalized Wilson’s long-term future, leaving room for the possibility of his return.
As of now, the Broncos have not ruled out any option, and speculation about Wilson’s future persists. While Wilson has expressed his desire to stay with the Broncos, he acknowledges the uncertainty and remains open to the possibility of continuing his career elsewhere. The situation is dynamic, and the outcome will unfold as the Broncos navigate through the complexities of parting ways with a significant player like Wilson.
The Denver Broncos have decided to bench Russell Wilson temporarily, but the challenge lies in finding the most effective way to part ways with the nine-time Pro Bowl quarterback in the long run. The decision is not a straightforward one, and the Broncos are faced with four potential options for the upcoming offseason:
As quarterback Russell Wilson explains it, his job was in jeopardy nearly two months ago and after the Denver Broncos’ biggest win. It was then, during the bye week following a victory over the Kansas City Chiefs on Oct. 29, Wilson said he was facing an ultimatum from the team: Adjust his contract or risk being benched. He didn’t budge. Weeks later, Wilson is now finishing out the season on the sideline. It may just be the end of his time in Denver, too.
A disappointed Wilson spoke to the media Friday after practice for the first time since being demoted earlier in the week by coach Sean Payton. Wilson will be relegated to the role of backup to Jarrett Stidham on Sunday against the Los Angeles Chargers (5-10). Wilson was perplexed by the timing of his benching since the Broncos (7-8) still have a chance of making the playoffs, even if slim.
But the warning signs were there. Soon after helping Denver end a 16-game skid against the defending Super Bowl-champion Chiefs, he said he was approached about the structure of his deal. Wilson signed a five-year, $245 million contract extension last year that kicks in next season. He has a clause where there’s a roster guarantee for $37 million if he doesn’t pass a physical on the fifth day of the 2024 league year in March.
“It definitely hurt. It was a low blow for a bit,” Wilson said of the discussions that came in the middle of Denver’s five-game winning streak. “I came here for a reason, and that’s to win more championships. That’s still my focus to this day. I’m under contract. I want to do whatever it takes. And that’s why I’m going to practice the right way and do everything the right way.”
