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Wilson was informed by the Broncos on Monday
the team plans to cut him, moving on before his contract called
for $37 million in salary guarantees for the 2025 season.
"We spoke with Russell Wilson today to inform him of his release
after the start of the league year," general manager George
Paton and head coach Sean Payton said in a joint statement
Monday. "On behalf of the Broncos, we thank Russell for his
contributions and dedication to our team and community while
wishing him the best as he continues his career. As we move
forward, we are focused on building the strongest team possible
for the 2024 season and beyond. We are excited to improve this
offseason and will have the flexibility to get better through
the draft and free agency."
Wilson's $39 million salary for 2024 was already guaranteed.
Wilson issued his own statement and a thank you to Broncos fans,
several teammates and staff members. He ended by saying "Tough
times don't last, but tough people do. God's got me. I am
excited for what's next."
Wilson, a nine-time Pro Bowl pick, was acquired from the Seattle
Seahawks prior to the 2022 season for three players and five
draft choices. The Broncos then gave him a five-year, $242.5
million contract extension before playing a down for the team.
Benched for the final two games of the 2023 season to avoid an
injury that would trigger guarantees in his contract, Wilson
posted an 11-19 record in 30 starts with the Broncos.
Wilson had 16 touchdown passes against 11 interceptions in 2022.
In his first season with Payton as head coach after Nathaniel
Hackett was fired, he put up good numbers -- 26 touchdowns,
eight interceptions -- but the Broncos opted to move in another
direction.
--Field Level Media
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