Broncos Benched Russell Wilson over Contract Dispute
Russell Wilson reveals that he was benched by the Denver Broncos after refusing to adjust a salary guarantee in his contract.
Wilson claims Broncos threatened to bench him over contract dispute
Russell Wilson recently disclosed that he was approached by Denver Broncos officials after the team's victory over the Kansas City Chiefs to adjust a salary guarantee in his contract. According to Wilson, he was told that if he didn't comply, he would be benched for the rest of the season.
The Broncos' head coach, Sean Payton, announced that Wilson would be replaced by Jarrett Stidham as the starting quarterback for an upcoming game against the Los Angeles Chargers. Payton maintains that the decision is solely based on winning and to spark the offense.
Wilson was asked to waive the guarantee in his five-year, $242.6 million contract signed in 2022. If he couldn't pass a physical examination on the fifth day of the new league year in March, he would receive an additional $37 million in guaranteed salary for 2025. The team wanted to adjust the timing of this guarantee.
Wilson discusses the threat and his dedication to the game
According to Wilson, the team informed him that he would be benched if he didn't agree to waive the $37 million guarantee. Despite the potential consequences, Wilson expressed his commitment to playing and helping his team win.
The Broncos had a 3-5 record at the time of their victory against the Chiefs. If Wilson had sustained a serious injury in the remaining nine games, the guarantee would have been triggered in March. The NFL and its players' association got involved, and Wilson continued as the team's starter for subsequent wins.
However, with recent losses and criticism of the offense, the Broncos officially benched Wilson.
Uncertainty about Wilson's future with the Broncos
The decision regarding Wilson's future with the Broncos will be a significant roster decision for the team. If the team decides to cut Wilson, they would face substantial dead money charges over the next two seasons.
Despite the uncertainty, Wilson expressed his hope to have a long-term future with the Broncos. He also acknowledged that he is prepared to play elsewhere if necessary.
In addition to the contract dispute, the Broncos face challenges in the upcoming game due to injuries to several key wide receivers.
