Full compensation revealed in Denver Broncos, Russell Wilson deal
The Denver Broncos sent the NFL world into a frenzy on Tuesday afternoon, trading for Russell Wilson via the Seattle Seahawks. A Super Bowl-winning quarterback will once again be playing in the Mile High City, hoping to bring another Lombardi Trophy to the franchise.
Full details have begun to be revealed, with Denver sending a heavy package up to Seattle to acquire Wilson.
First, fellow quarterback Drew Lock will be involved, according to Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network. Lock was a second-round draft pick for the Broncos back in 2019 and was started in 21 games. Denver only won eight of those and realized he was no longer going to be their franchise quarterback. Now, Lock will head to Seattle entering the final season of his rookie contract.
Senior Bowl Executive Director Jim Nagy explained why including Lock in the deal makes sense from Seattle’s perspective. He said being just 25-years-old, a change of scenery could be the difference for a young quarterback.
“Drew Lock being part of the Russ deal was an easy call,” Nagy said. “25 years old with tons of physical talent. People talk about circumstance/fit being a main determinant of how young QBs develop and Denver wasn’t it for Lock. Makes sense that John Schneider is giving him a second chance.”
Another quality player will be heading to Seattle in defensive lineman Shelby Harris. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Harris was considered a “locker-room leader” for Denver. Harris had been with the Broncos since 2017, playing in 75 games while recording 203 tackles, 34 tackles for a loss, 25 passes defended, and 44 quarterback hits.
After originally being drafted by the then Oakland Raiders, Harris will be moving to the NFC for the first time in his career.
Tight end Noah Fant is on the move as well, adding to the offensive compensation Seattle will be getting back, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. Fant is viewed as one of the best young players at his positions, having 1,905 yards throughout his three-season after being drafted in the first round of the 2019 draft.
Seattle will be getting a heavy draft haul as well. Rapoport reports two first-round, two second-round, and a fifth-round pick will be heading the Seahawks’ way. As to exactly what years the picks are in has not been specified.
Denver will be getting back a fourth-round pick as well.