The looming separation between the Denver Broncos and quarterback Russell Wilson appears poised to escalate further, introducing additional complexities to an already contentious situation. Following the decision to replace Wilson with Jarrett Stidham last week, the 35-year-old quarterback publicly disclosed the team’s ultimatum issued weeks ago during the bye week. The ultimatum stipulated that unless Wilson waived his $37 million injury guarantee for the 2025 season, a decision that would be finalized in March, he risked being benched.
This revelation sparked a response from the NFL Players Association (NFLPA), which, in November, dispatched a letter to the Broncos, asserting that the threat against Wilson violated the terms of the collective bargaining agreement. The implication is that legal action could be pursued against the Broncos due to their actions.
Despite head coach Sean Payton’s insistence that Wilson’s benching was solely related to performance concerns and not connected to his contract, the prevailing perception within the league suggests otherwise. Now, Payton and the Broncos’ front office find themselves likely facing a significant undertaking during the offseason as they endeavor to repair their damaged reputations, especially in light of Wilson sharing his side of the story.
An anonymous executive, quoted by The Athletic, emphasized the shift in dynamics compared to the past, noting, “Fifteen years ago, the quarterback would sit quiet and try to get on another team. When you mistreat a guy like Wilson, that ain’t going to happen. I think Sean messed with the wrong guy because (Wilson) told the story.”
While no official announcement has been made, it is widely anticipated that the Broncos will release Wilson in March, effectively preceding the activation of his injury guarantee. If this release is designated as post-June 1, Wilson would carry a substantial $35.4 million in dead cap, according to Over the Cap.
The financial ramifications for the Broncos are noteworthy, given their projection to be $18.1 million over the salary cap in 2024. Wilson’s release would contribute to the existing $9.69 million in dead cap, a result of the team parting ways with Randy Gregory, Brandon McManus, Frank Clark, and Montrell Washington. The cumulative impact places the Broncos’ dead cap figure at $45.1 million.
The unfolding saga between the Broncos and Russell Wilson underscores not only the intricacies of contractual negotiations in the NFL but also the potential fallout and repercussions when such matters are thrust into the public domain. The clash between the team and the quarterback, coupled with the involvement of the NFLPA, creates a complex narrative that is likely to shape the forthcoming offseason landscape for both parties involved. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the Broncos and Wilson navigate these challenges and whether a resolution can be reached that satisfies all stakeholders.
This is the most honest and raw side of Russell Wilson that I've seen. pic.twitter.com/NrwpNcdR9A
— Rachel Vigil (@heyrachelvigil) December 29, 2023
Leave a Reply