After a tumultuous two-year run with the Denver Broncos, veteran quarterback Russell Wilson is set for a change of scenery.
The Broncos announced on Monday that they informed Wilson he will be released when the new league year opens on March 13. Wilson released a lengthy statement thanking fans and the organization, saying he's "excited for what's next."
Russell Wilson @DangeRussWilsonThank You Broncos Country 🙏🏾 - #3 <a href="">
The Broncos acquired Wilson from the Seattle Seahawks in 2022 in exchange for five draft picks and four players. Wilson signed a five-year, $245 million contract extension upon his arrival to Denver. Unfortunately, the team did not get a good return on its investment.
The 35-year-old started 15 games in both the 2022 and 2023 seasons and went 11-19. He was benched for the final two games of the 2023 campaign to avoid being on the hook for the injury guarantee in his contract that would've been worth $37 million in 2025.
As he hits the open market for the first time in his career, Wilson likely will have to prove he isn't damaged goods. In his defense, he played behind a subpar offensive line in Denver and led the league by getting sacked 55 times in 2022. The team didn't fare much better last year, as he was taken down 45 times.
Multiple teams are looking to find their quarterback of the future this offseason, so perhaps one of them will give Wilson a chance to be a veteran mentor.
