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The Broncos lost any realistic shot at making the playoffs by falling to the Patriots on Sunday, giving them a 7-8 record — and just a 1.4% chance of reaching the postseason — with 2023 winding down. Now they’re benching quarterback Russell Wilson for the final two games, according to NFL Media, in an effort to preserve the possibility of a feasible split this offseason.
The Broncos insist the decision to turn to backup Jarrett Stidham is meant to provide an offensive “spark” after a 1-3 stretch — that it has nothing to do with the QB’s contract, per CBS Sports HQ Senior NFL insider Josina Anderson. But the writing is on the wall: Wilson had recently sidestepped questions about his future in Denver beyond 2023, while an injury in the final two games would’ve prevented the Broncos from seamlessly releasing the QB after the season, should the team desire to move on.
Wilson has certainly improved on his erratic 2022 Broncos debut, leaving Week 16 with 26 touchdowns, eight interceptions and a 98.0 passer rating — his best in three years. But Denver’s offense has struggled overall, ranking No. 16 in scoring and No. 25 in yards per game. And then there’s the QB’s lucrative contract, a $245 million whopper set to count $35.4M against the 2024 salary cap.
Might coach Sean Payton and the Broncos’ relatively new ownership group already prefer to hit the reset button under center? Sure. Again, while Wilson was improved this year, he’s 35 and very expensive (No. 5 among annual QB earners). But can Denver move on? Is it even possible for Payton and Co. to get out of Wilson’s deal following the 2023 season?
The answer is yes, but it likely won’t save Denver much money in the short term.
Here are the details: Wilson is currently signed through 2028, but he’s only guaranteed money through 2024. That said, his entire 2025 salary ($37M) will be guaranteed if he remains on the Broncos’ roster at the…
Source link : https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/broncos-reportedly-benching-russell-wilson-for-rest-of-2023-can-denver-get-out-of-qbs-contract/
Author : Cody Benjamin
Publish date : 2023-12-27 18:57:31
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