Denver Broncos’ rollercoaster 2023 campaign took another unexpected turn. Head coach Sean Payton announced on Wednesday that veteran quarterback Russell Wilson will be benched for the upcoming game against the Los Angeles Chargers.
Wilson’s backup, Jarrett Stidham, will start under center. Stidham only played four snaps this season but hasn’t attempted a single pass.
Speaking about the decision, Payton said that he made the move to bench Wilson because he wanted to get a “spark” on offense.
“I understand all the speculation and everything that surrounds a move like that,” Payton said. “I can tell you — look, we’re desperately trying to win.”
Despite what Payton was saying, many took Wilson’s benching as a sign that his time with the franchise might be over. According to multiple reports, the former Pro Bowler would get another $37 million in guaranteed money on his already massive deal if he can’t pass his physical in March. Considering they are already in a tough salary cap situation, the Broncos desperately want to avoid that.
Wilson has yet to start the five-year, $242.6 million extension he signed with the Broncos in 2022. If Denver opts to release him, they would have to swallow up a total of $85 million in dead cap space in the next two seasons. As daunting as this sounds, it appears that Payton and the Broncos’ front office are thinking about that.
Wilson is playing better in 2023 compared to last season but is still far from his best days. The 35-year-old player has thrown for 3,070 yards, 26 touchdowns, and eight interceptions.
