The Denver Broncos, while not yet eliminated from playoff contention, have made a pivotal decision regarding their quarterback situation with a mere two weeks left in the regular season.
As reported by NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport, the Broncos have chosen to sideline Russell Wilson for the final two games, a decision influenced by financial considerations, according to informed sources.
Jarrett Stidham is poised to make his inaugural start for the Broncos against the Chargers this Sunday. Further details from NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero indicate that Wilson will assume the role of the No. 2 QB for Week 17.
The primary motive behind this quarterback switch is financial prudence, as outlined by Rapoport. Wilson carries a substantial $37 million injury guarantee for the year 2025, a guarantee that solidifies come March.
By benching Wilson for the concluding weeks, the Broncos aim to mitigate the risk of a catastrophic injury, thereby preserving financial flexibility should the decision be made to part ways with the 35-year-old quarterback in 2024. While not confirmed, the decision to bench Wilson towards the end of the season strongly suggests that Denver may conclude its association with Wilson after two seasons.
Wilson is slated to receive $39 million in full guarantees for the year 2024.
Head Coach Sean Payton later affirmed the revised QB depth chart during his Wednesday press conference, emphasizing the team’s commitment to securing offensive revitalization.
Payton stated, “Look, I can tell you we’re desperately trying to win. Sure, in our game today there are economics and all those other things, but the No. 1 push behind this — and it’s a decision I’m making — is to get a spark offensively.”
This strategic move echoes a tactic employed by the Las Vegas Raiders in the previous season with Derek Carr, where the starter was benched in favor of then-backup Stidham. Now, in Denver, Stidham assumes the quarterback position after joining the Mile High club earlier this year.
While Wilson showcased improved performance under Payton compared to his challenging first season in Denver in 2022, recent offensive struggles raised questions about the team’s future with Wilson.
The Week 15 loss to Detroit included a noteworthy sideline exchange between Wilson and Payton. Although the coach downplayed the incident, it underscored the uncertain trajectory of Wilson’s tenure.
Denver, initially recovering from a 1-5 start, surged into playoff contention with a five-game winning streak. However, recent setbacks, including a Sunday night loss to New England, diminished their playoff prospects.
In 15 starts this season, Wilson completed 66.4% of his passes for 3,070 yards, the lowest in 12 seasons, with 26 touchdown passes and eight interceptions. Once hailed as the missing piece for Denver’s playoff aspirations, the potential end of Wilson’s tenure with the Broncos marks a substantial disappointment.
With two games remaining, the 7-8 Broncos face an 8% chance of making the postseason, according to Next Gen Stats. The team will rely on Stidham to secure victories against the Chargers and Raiders, coupled with external assistance.
The decision to bench Wilson, prioritizing his health, signifies that Payton is prepared to commence evaluations for the 2024 season as he continues to shape the roster according to his preferences.