Broncos Pick ‘Em: Under what circumstances does Russell Wilson return to Denver?

Not so fast.

The Russell Wilson era in Denver hasn’t ended yet.

Despite benching Wilson with two weeks remaining in the season, Sean Payton and George Paton both stated at the end-of-season press conference that Wilson’s comeback is still possible.

“The door remains open with ‘Russ,'” Paton explained after the season. “I’ve had wonderful chats with Russ, as has Sean. “The door is open.

Wilson has even told Paton that he is open to returning.

What would need to happen for No. 3 to return to the Orange and Blue next season?

The DNVR Broncos crew breaks it down.

What has to happen for Russell Wilson to return to the Broncos?

Zac suggests a compensation decrease for Russell, rather than a reorganization.

If Russell Wilson is ready to take a big discount, he may be able to return as the team’s starting quarterback in 2024.

Unfortunately, there is no perfect scenario for the Broncos with Wilson.

If they simply cut him, the dead cap from Wilson’s contract would be cripplingly high. Even Paton acknowledged it would be “extreme.”

However, if they keep him, regardless of whether it’s on his current contract (which it won’t be) or a salary reduction, Payton will be dealing with a quarterback he doesn’t believe can handle the offense. That is obviously not ideal.

However, Wilson’s willingness to accept a large pay cut may be the best alternative.

The only problem is that with so much guaranteed money still owed to him, he has little motivation to accept a significant pay decrease.

That is why, while implausible, it is not impossible.

The Broncos owe Russell Wilson $39 million by 2024.

That is a lot of money. Denver must give it to him, whether he is on the team or not. He may sit on the couch and earn the same money as if he played another NFL season. Or he can take a low deal and play somewhere else.

Wilson claims he wants to stay in Denver, but how can that be true? The team has experienced seven straight losing seasons. The coach benched him. The front office requested that he modify his contract.

Wouldn’t a fresh start with a new team be a blessing? There’s no reason for Wilson to accept less money and remain in Denver.

RK: I can’t believe we’re having a conversation. Don’t be deceived by the media’s save-face marathon. Sean Payton dislikes Russ, Russ is unhappy in Denver, Broncos fans are against Russ, the team saves money by cutting Russ, and let’s not overthink it. It is over.

The Russell Wilson era is finished, and it’s a shame how it ended. There is plenty of blame to go around, but Nathaniel Hackett’s unfocused offense will be the primary reason. Russ’ reputation in Denver was irreparably damaged after the wheels came off that wagon.

While Wilson has always been a nice teammate, he is not cut out to be a backup quarterback, and Sean Payton prefers to go another road. Fin.

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