Quarterback Russell Wilson will not play for the Denver Broncos in Sunday’s game against the Arizona Cardinals despite clearing concussion protocol, Broncos coach Nathaniel Hackett confirmed. The team decided that it was in the player’s best interest for him to sit out one game rather than being rushed back into action.
While inactive for Sunday’s game, Wilson is expected to start on Christmas Day against the Los Angeles Rams according to Hackett. Backup quarterback Brett Rypien will start against the Cardinals in Wilson’s stead.
“As an organization, we decided to give [Wilson] another week to get ready so he’s ready to go for the Los Angeles Rams,” Hackett confirmed following Friday’s practice session. “We informed him of the decision. He’s not happy with it. He wants to be out there and play. … But we as an organization, after talking and discussing for this entire week, have decided it’s best for our organization, best for Russell. And we talked about this all the way from top all the way to the bottom.”
Wilson’s head hit the ground during the fourth quarter of the 34-28 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs last Sunday. After staying on the ground for a few moments, Wilson was helped to his feet by the Broncos’ medical staff.
