Russell Wilson linked with shock NFL move after Denver Broncos quarterback benched mid-season
There have been rumors that Russell Wilson would join the NFC North.
Russell Wilson, the former NFL MVP, may soon be leaving the Denver Broncos.
Even though the 35-year-old, nine-time Pro Bowl quarterback is only two years into a $245 million five-year contract, it appears like his time in Colorado may be coming to an end.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, Wilson may be “intrigued” by the Minnesota Vikings if they decide not to re-sign veteran Kirk Cousins.
“Don’t be surprised if Wilson, should he become a free agent, is intrigued by Minnesota, assuming Kirk Cousins doesn’t re-sign with the Vikings (a big question),” Fowler said.
“Kevin O’Connell comes from the Sean McVay passing tree that maximizes quarterback efficiency.
“Wilson would have plenty of weapons in a group that includes Justin Jefferson, T.J. Hockenson and Jordan Addison.”
This would require the Broncos to either trade Wilson or release him from his current contract.
Despite some impressive performances in 2023, Wilson was benched by head coach Sean Payton for their final two games of the season.
He subsequently told the media that he had declined the team’s request to rework his contract weeks prior after their upset against the Kansas City Chiefs, claiming they also threatened to bench him.
Wilson told reporters: “They came up to me during the bye week and beginning of the bye week, Monday or Tuesday, they told me if I didn’t change my contract, my injury guarantee, that I’d be benched the rest of the year.
“I was definitely disappointed about it. It was a process for the whole bye week.
“We had just come off beating the Chiefs, I was excited for us fighting for the playoffs and getting on a hot streak.
“The NFLPA and NFL got involved or whatever at some point.”
Payton, however, said during a press conference that his decision to bench Wilson was driven by his desire to win.
“I understand all the speculation and everything that surrounds a move like that,” he admitted.
“I can tell you, look, we’re desperately trying to win. Sure, in our game today, there are economics and all those other things.
“But the number one push behind this, and it’s a decision I’m making, is to get a spark offensively.”
With Jarrett Stidham under center for the final two games, the Broncos went 1-1.
He threw for 496 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception.
Wilson was benched for the final two games of the seasonCredit: Getty
