The Denver Broncos announced on Wednesday that they are benching veteran quarterback Russell Wilson and installing backup Jarrett Stidham as the new starter. According to a report by The Athletic’s Dianna Russini, Wilson anticipated such a move and is expecting to be cut by the franchise in March.
In a piece published shortly after the Broncos’ made the announcement of Wilson’s benching, Russini detailed two-month negotiations between the two sides regarding the player’s contract. Reportedly, the Broncos wanted Wilson to defer the $37 million “injury guarantee” on his contract that would kick in if he isn’t able to pass his medical in March.
At the time, the Broncos told Wilson that he would lose his starting job and be made inactive if he didn’t agree to the contract change. The 35-year-old player declined, leading to his recent benching and making him certain that he played his last game with the franchise.
Wilson signed a five-year, $245 million contract extension with the Broncos ahead of the 2022 season. He has $39 million guaranteed for the upcoming season, and it would cost Denver approximately $85 million in dead cap money to release him before March. They can also spread the hit between 2024 and 2025 if they cut him with a post-June 1 designation.
The Broncos are currently 7-8 after starting the season 1-5 and remain in the playoff race. Wilson will finish the 2023 campaign, having completed 66.4 percent of his passes while throwing for 3,070 yards, 26 touchdowns, and eight picks.
