Russell Wilson’s Potential $100 Million Post-Playoff Move Sparks NFL Speculation

The Denver Broncos’ disappointing playoff loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars has ignited speculation about quarterback Russell Wilson’s future with the team. Wilson, who signed a five-year, $245 million contract extension last September, could potentially be traded or released by the Broncos in the offseason. If he is released, Wilson would be eligible to sign a new contract worth up to $100 million per year.

Wilson’s Struggles in Denver

Wilson’s first season in Denver was a major disappointment. The Broncos finished with a 5-12 record, and Wilson threw for just 3,524 yards, 16 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. His passer rating of 84.4 was the lowest of his career. Wilson also struggled with injuries, missing three games due to a hamstring injury.

There are several reasons for Wilson’s struggles in Denver. The Broncos’ offensive line was one of the worst in the NFL, and Wilson was sacked 55 times, the second-highest total in the league. The Broncos also had a lack of weapons at wide receiver, and Wilson’s favorite target, Courtland Sutton, missed most of the season with a knee injury. Additionally, Wilson was not comfortable in head coach Nathaniel Hackett’s offensive system, which was designed to be more run-heavy than Wilson is accustomed to.

Trade or Release?

The Broncos have a difficult decision to make regarding Wilson’s future. They could trade him, release him, or keep him and try to improve the team around him. Trading Wilson would be difficult, as he has a no-trade clause in his contract. However, the Broncos could potentially find a team willing to give up significant assets for Wilson, such as the New York Jets or the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

If the Broncos release Wilson, they would be on the hook for his $51 million salary in 2023. However, they would save $165 million in salary cap space over the next four years. Releasing Wilson would also allow the Broncos to start over at quarterback with a younger, cheaper player.

Potential Landing Spots

If Wilson is released by the Broncos, he would likely be one of the most sought-after free agents on the market. Several teams could be interested in signing Wilson, including the New York Jets, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Las Vegas Raiders, and the Carolina Panthers.

The Jets have the most cap space of any team in the NFL, and they are in need of a quarterback. The Buccaneers could be interested in Wilson as a replacement for Tom Brady, who retired after the 2022 season. The Raiders are also in need of a quarterback, and they have a strong offensive line that could help Wilson succeed. The Panthers are rebuilding, but they have a talented roster and could be a good fit for Wilson.

Conclusion

Russell Wilson’s future with the Denver Broncos is uncertain following the team’s disappointing playoff loss. The Broncos could trade Wilson, release him, or keep him and try to improve the team around him. If Wilson is released, he would likely be one of the most sought-after free agents on the market. Several teams could be interested in signing Wilson, including the New York Jets, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Las Vegas Raiders, and the Carolina Panthers.

Wilson’s potential move could have a major impact on the NFL landscape. If he is traded or released, it would create a ripple effect that could lead to several other quarterback moves. Wilson’s future is up in the air, but one thing is for sure: he will be one of the most talked-about players in the NFL this offseason.