The Denver Broncos are making an unexpected move, benching quarterback Russell Wilson for the final two weeks of the 2023 NFL regular season, even with slim chances for a wild card or AFC West title. The decision prompts intriguing scenarios and hints at a financial aspect.
“There certainly appears to be a financial component to Denver’s decision,” notes the USA Today article. Wilson is guaranteed $39 million in 2024, and the $37 million for 2025 kicks in shortly after free agency in March. The Broncos may be looking to avoid an injury guarantee and retain the option to trade Wilson.
Considering the possibility of Wilson donning another uniform in 2024, let’s explore potential landing spots:
Minnesota Vikings
If Kirk Cousins hits free agency in 2024, the Vikings might explore an alternative who can effectively target WR Justin Jefferson. Cousins is 35 (same as Wilson) and is definitely scheduled to hit the open market.
New England Patriots
In a situation with a developing Mac Jones, Wilson might find starting opportunities under the unknown job status of HC Bill Belichick. Today, neither Mac Jones nor Bailey Zappe seems to be the answer for the Pats.
Atlanta Falcons
Wilson could optimize talents like WR Drake London, TE Kyle Pitts, and RB Bijan Robinson in a potentially winnable division under HC Arthur Smith. Surely the Falcons need to do better than Desmond Ridder and/or Taylor Heinicke.
Las Vegas Raiders
Although Jimmy Garoppolo is technically under contract through the 2025 season, and rookie Aidan O’Connell is the current starter, a potential reunion with the Broncos twice a year while navigating a franchise possibly in flux could be an interesting dynamic for Wilson.
Miami Dolphins
While a bit far-fetched, given Tua Tagovailoa’s contract situation, Wilson could be a fallback option if Tua Tagovailoa‘s future becomes uncertain as he maybe decides he doesn’t want to play for a relatively modest $23.2 million in 2024 if the Dolphins don’t pony up the extension he’s looking for.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Is worth noting that OC Dave Canales was on Seattle’s staff for the entirety of Wilson’s tenure in the Pacific Northwest, including stints as the quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator. And no one knows if Baker Mayfield will become part of the Bucs’ long-term plans with his one-year deal set to soon expire.
Washington Commanders
Facing potential regime change and quarterback uncertainty, the Commanders might consider Wilson’s efficient ball distribution and mistake-minimizing qualities.
Pittsburgh Steelers
With a veteran-laden defense, the Steelers have the opportunity to reimagine an underachieving offense in 2024, one that will require a new coordinator and maybe an experienced quarterback like Wilson.
As the quarterback shuffle unfolds, Wilson’s future in 2024 remains uncertain. While financial considerations in Denver play a role, the broader NFL landscape awaits Wilson’s potential move to reshape teams in the upcoming season.
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Marca
