ESPN Reveals Why Russell Wilson's Legacy is at Stake
It's no secret that the Denver Broncos failed to meet expectations last year. The 2022 Broncos were historically bad, finishing the season with a 5-12 record and near the bottom of the league in most offensive statistical categories.
Part of the struggles last year could be attributed to incompetent coaching. Many believe that Nathaniel Hackett was in way over his head regarding the management of a team. It also didn't help that the Broncos finished the season with a total of 22 players on injured reserve, the second-most in the NFL.
Despite the contributing factors, there is one player on this team that must have a bounce-back season: Russell Wilson. With the new additions, especially head coach Sean Payton, Broncos fans should expect Wilson to rebound.
However, if Wilson doesn't, it would be a major concern for the team. Per Dan Graziano of ESPN, it could put his legacy at stake:
“I think that is something that is very important to him," Graziano said during a TV segment. "The run he had in Seattle and the success he had there… you are probably thinking that this guy is headed for the Hall of Fame. He may well be. But after last year, and how bad it was his first season in Denver, you start to wonder should we be jumping to that conclusion. If he does that again, if he is that bad again, then you do have to start wondering about his legacy and how we will view him long term. If he bounces back under Sean Payton and plays like the guy we knew from Seattle, then I think it’s back on track. I think it’s a very significant year for him.”
With Payton’s installment and minor adjustments of the West Coast Offense, Wilson should thrive. Fans should expect those jaw-dropping throws outside the pocket, designed runs, and off-script plays that made him a household name.
If Wilson reverts to this style of play, he will leave no doubt that he is deserving of a spot in Canton.
"A lot of people had dirt on their hands," Payton said via USA TODAY Sports. "It wasn’t just Russell. He didn’t just flip. He still has it. This B.S. that he hit a wall? Shoot, they couldn’t get a play in. They were 29th in the league in pre-snap penalties on both sides of the ball.”
Touche.
Follow Mile High Huddle on Twitter and Facebook.
Subscribe to Mile High Huddle on YouTube for daily Broncos live-stream podcasts!
