Denver Broncos announce plans to release QB Russell Wilson
The Denver Broncos announced Monday that quarterback Russell Wilson will be released after the league year begins on March 13.
“We spoke with Russell Wilson today to inform him of his release after the start of the league year,” general manager George Paton and head coach Sean Payton said in a joint statement. “On behalf of the Broncos, we thank Russell for his contributions and dedication to our team and community while wishing him the best as he continues his career.
“As we move forward, we are focused on building the strongest team possible for the 2024 season and beyond. We are excited to improve this offseason and will have the flexibility to get better through the draft and free agency.”
Wilson’s release comes just two years removed from Denver acquiring him from the Seattle Seahawks and signing him to a five-year, $242.6 million extension. His play dipped in 2022, as he threw for 3,524 yards, 16 touchdowns and 11 interceptions on 60.5% passing. The Broncos went 4-11 in his starts.
Payton was brought in as the team’s new head coach ahead of the 2023 season, with the objective of getting Wilson back to playing his best ball. Wilson’s 2023 was far better, throwing for 3,070 yards, 26 touchdowns and eight interceptions on 66.4% passing. He finished as the NFL’s eighth highest-rated passer (98.0). The Broncos benched Wilson for the final two games of the season in favor of Jarrett Stidham. Denver went a combined 13-21 with Wilson under center.
By cutting Wilson, the Broncos avoid having to pay him an extra $37 million guaranteed. They will, however, incur dead money charges of $85 million against their salary cap over the next two seasons combined, an NFL record.
Russell Wilson releases statement on pending release from Denver Broncos
Wilson released a lengthy statement shortly after the Broncos announced his release.
“Over these last two years, you have welcomed my family and me with open arms and have embraced us as members of the Denver community. This city will always hold a special place in my heart,” Wilson said. “Our family grew here, we made countless memories and friendships, and formed relationships that will last a lifetime. To my teammates, thank you for going to battle together and for being there through it all.
There are so many moments I cherish because of you and I am blessed for the impact you have made on my life. I am beyond grateful for all of you and to have been able to run out as your teammate was an honor.
“Court[land Sutton], I’ll never forget your one-handed catch in LA and your toe tap in Buffalo. [Garett] Bolles, you always wrapping your arm around me win or lose. Brandon Johnson your relentless work ethic. [Jerry] Jeu[dy] you snagging and high pointing that ball vs KC! Javonte [Williams] and Tim [Patrick]… y’all always being positive in the midst of injury but fighting daily to be back! Jaleel [McLaughlin], you running to the end zone every practice… I still think [Michael] Burton’s got you though! Alex [Forsyth], from picking you up years ago to seeing you shine! To the OLine dinners at Los Dos!
“I’ll never forget Wendy & Brandy in the cafeteria! Daily bringing the good food, but the even better jams! Thank you for always being uplifting. Finally, to Ray, Aka Pastor Ray Jackson. Thanks for your countless prayers. Daily. To give God the praise daily and us getting on the floor to thank Jesus for breath in the good times and the bad times.
“Tough times don’t last, but tough people do. God’s got me. I am excited for what’s next.”