Russell Wilson: Denver Broncos release quarterback just two years after huge trade
The Denver Broncos have released quarterback Russell Wilson, just two years after acquiring him in what was considered one of the most significant trades in NFL history. The 35-year-old, previously with the Seattle Seahawks for 10 seasons, including leading them to a Super Bowl victory over the Broncos in 2014, had become one of the league’s highest-paid players. Despite this, his tenure with Denver saw limited success, winning only 11 of 30 games.
Expressing optimism for the future, Wilson stated, “God’s got me. I am excited for what’s next.” The Broncos had hoped Wilson would fill the void left by the retirement of legendary quarterback Peyton Manning, who helped secure their third Super Bowl win in 2016. In a blockbuster trade, Denver gave up significant draft capital and players to acquire Wilson, who subsequently signed a lucrative five-year contract extension just before the 2022 season.
However, the Broncos faced turmoil with the firing of head coach Nathaniel Hackett, and though they showed some improvement under his successor Sean Payton, they failed to make the playoffs. Payton and general manager George Paton thanked Wilson for his contributions but emphasized their commitment to building a strong team for the upcoming season and beyond. With the NFL draft approaching, where the Broncos hold the 12th overall pick, they aim to bolster their roster through both the draft and free agency.
