ESPN predicts what Broncos will do with Russell Wilson this offseason

The Denver Broncos never expected just two years into signing quarterback Russell Wilson to a five-year, $245 million extension that they’d have to make a decision whether to keep or cut ties with him and reset at the most important position.

And yet, that’s where things stand for the Broncos, who benched Wilson for the final two games of the 2023 regular season. Jeff Legwold of ESPN provided an update Wednesday on where things stand with Wilson and the Broncos, saying the team is more than likely to move on from him this offseason.

“When Denver coach Sean Payton benched Wilson with two games remaining in the season, he signaled a move toward a divorce from the 35-year-old quarterback and that five-year, $245 million extension signed in 2022.” Legwold wrote. “And while Payton and general manager George Paton have both left the door ajar on Wilson’s return, the Broncos are more likely to take an $85 million dead money hit over the next two years and reset at the position.”

Broncos face big dead money charges if they cut Russell Wilson

Denver owes Wilson $39 million in guarantees for 2024 as part of the deal he signed in 2022. However, holding onto him would mean vesting $37 million for 2025. Basically, if Wilson can’t pass a physical by early March, Denver owes him the $37 million for 2025 no matter what. If Denver cuts Wilson, they will face dead money charges of $85 million over the next two seasons combined. Wilson, 35, threw for 3,070 yards, 26 touchdowns and eight interceptions on 66.4% passing this season. He finished as the NFL’s eighth rated passer (98.0).

Broncos general manager George Paton said earlier this month that the door remains open for Wilson to return in 2024.

“The door remains open with Russ,” Paton said. “I’ve had good conversations with Russ, and Sean [Payton] has had good conversations. The door is open. We’ll get through the process, and we’ll visit with the coaching staff and scouting staff. We’ll visit with Russ and his people, and we’ll go from there.”