Russell Wilson says Broncos asked him to alter contract or risk benching

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Russell Wilson says Broncos asked him to alter contract or risk benching originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia

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.”

It was difficult for him not to look over his shoulder after the contract episode. He guided the team to wins over Buffalo, Minnesota and Cleveland to climb back into the playoff picture. But then…

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Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/russell-wilson-says-broncos-asked-024825955.html

Author : NBC Sports Philadelphia

Publish date : 2023-12-30 02:57:16

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