Broncos Inform QB Russell Wilson of Release
The Denver Broncos have informed quarterback Russell Wilson that he will officially be released at the March 13 start of the new league year, expectedly marking the end of the future Hall-of-Famer's tenure after just two seasons.
“We spoke with Russell Wilson today to inform him of his release after the start of the league year,” Broncos general manager George Paton and head coach Sean Payton said in a joint statement Monday. “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 also took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to confirm the news.
The Broncos acquired Wilson in March 2022, sending to the Seattle Seahawks two first-round draft picks, two second-round selections, a fifth-round choice, QB Drew Lock, tight end Noah Fant, and defensive end Shelby Harris. As part of the deal, Wilson received a five-year, $245 million extension, of which $124 million was guaranteed at signing.
Denver anticipated Wilson returning to his Pro Bowl form, but what they got instead was a massive loss on investment. Following a brutal maiden voyage under ex-Broncos coach Nathaniel Hackett, Wilson was benched for the final two games of the 2023 campaign by current boss Sean Payton, whose strict, in-structure system didn't mesh with the freewheeling 35-year-old.
Across 30 starts in orange and blue (11-19), Wilson threw for 6,594 yards, 42 touchdowns, and 19 interceptions, cumulatively completing 63.3% of his passes with a 90.9 rating. It was the consummate Russ rollercoaster: He had seven game-winning drives, but took a whopping 100 sacks; he added six rushing scores, but lost six fumbles.
Free from his apparent physical limitations, the Broncos will eat a league-record $85 million in dead money — split over 2024-25 — by cutting Wilson, who will immediately become an unrestricted free agent with possible landing spots including the Steelers, Falcons, and Raiders.
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