Sean Payton hints at Broncos’ imminent decision on QB Russell Wilson
The Denver Broncos are facing an important deadline related to quarterback Russell Wilson’s contract, and head coach Sean Payton has hinted that a decision will be made “sooner than later.” Payton made these comments during an interview with Adam Schein of Mad Dog Sports Radio while at the Super Bowl. The Broncos must consider their needs and wants, including the future of Wilson, in order to make this decision. Payton previously promised that the decision would not be a drawn-out process.
The trigger for this decision is a clause in Wilson’s contract that would guarantee his $37 million salary for 2025 if he remains on the roster on March 17. If the Broncos were to release Wilson, they would be responsible for $85 million in dead money. The team could spread these charges over two seasons through a post-June 1 release designation.
Payton emphasized that the Broncos are currently in the middle of their free-agent meeting process and will begin their draft meetings soon. These meetings will play a crucial role in determining the team’s direction at quarterback. Payton dismissed the notion that Denver has already chosen a path, stating that they haven’t even finalized their evaluation of rookie quarterbacks yet.
Last season, Payton benched Wilson with two games remaining, and the Broncos turned to Jarrett Stidham as the starting quarterback. The team finished the season with an 8-9 record, falling short of reaching the playoffs. The Broncos hold the No. 12 pick in the upcoming draft and could potentially look for a new quarterback.
Payton explained that after each season ends, the team evaluates their roster and begins the puzzle of building a competitive team again. They consider factors such as salary cap space, free agents, and draft picks. The decision regarding the quarterback position will be made quickly.
If the Broncos decide to move on from Wilson, the draft is a viable option for finding their next starting quarterback. Financial limitations may prevent the team from pursuing top signal-callers in free agency, as they are currently over the projected salary cap. Additionally, the Broncos have limited draft capital, with only one pick in the first two rounds. They have already traded multiple first-round picks in recent years.
Ultimately, the Broncos’ decision regarding a new starting quarterback hinges on their resolution with Wilson. Both sides have left the door open for a potential return, but given how last season ended, it seems unlikely. Wilson revealed that the Broncos asked him to change his contract during the bye week, threatening to bench him if he didn’t comply. The NFLPA was involved in this matter, working to protect Wilson’s interests.
While Wilson’s statistics improved last season, with 3,070 passing yards, 26 touchdowns, and eight interceptions, the Broncos’ offense struggled during a crucial stretch of games. Wilson’s ball-security issues played a role in the team’s slide. Payton stated that they initially focused on Wilson’s strengths offensively but eventually felt the need for a spark and turned to Stidham.
The Broncos face an important decision regarding their quarterback position, and the clock is ticking. Payton’s recent comments suggest that a resolution will be reached soon, potentially before the March 17 deadline. As the Broncos evaluate their options in free agency and the draft, they must carefully weigh their needs and financial constraints. The future of Russell Wilson hangs in the balance as the team looks to build a competitive roster for the upcoming season.