Russell Wilson leaves Denver Broncos: Next team options, salary & more

After two years with the Denver Broncos, Russell Wilson will hit the open market following the team’s decision to part ways.

Wilson entered the NFL with minimal fanfare. Somehow, 74 players got taken before him in the 2012 NFL Draft, including five other quarterbacks.

With the Seattle Seahawks, Wilson quickly became a difference-maker for the franchise. Along with a fearsome defense, the young signal-caller brought a Super Bowl to the city.

Wilson spent a decade with Seattle before he and head coach Pete Carroll had a falling out. Eventually, the Seahawks traded their star quarterback to the Denver Broncos.

After inheriting a mediocre roster and a first-time head coach, things went up in smoke for Denver. Wilson regressed, and the players around him didn’t help matters.

Wilson got an upgrade when Sean Payton arrived at Mile High, but it was a little too late. Only two years after acquiring Wilson, the franchise is moving on.

What’s next for Russell Wilson?

The Broncos announced on Monday that they will release Russell Wilson at the onset of the new league year on March 13, paving the way for Wilson to become a free agent for the first time ever.

What salary will he get?

According to reports, Wilson is willing to take the veteran minimum contract, valued at $~1.2 million. That number falls far below the NFL average quarterback salary of $7 million.

What are pundits saying?

Some analysts believe that Wilson’s regression directly results from a lackluster supporting cast. Others say that Wilson held the team back with his up-and-down play.

Wilson’s alleged willingness to play on the veteran minimum makes it easier for a franchise to roll the dice on, as it comes with minimal risk.

Where will he play?

Wilson has been connected to several teams this off-season. The Atlanta Falcons, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Las Vegas Raiders appear to be the three front-runners.

However, other quarterback-needy squads might view Wilson as a capable bridge starter. The New England Patriots and Washington Commanders are examples.

Which other free-agent quarterbacks are available?

Wilson adds his name to a quarterback list full of uncertainty in NFL free agency. Kirk Cousins is still without a deal, as the Vikings signal-caller continues rehabbing a torn Achilles.

The expectation is a return to Minnesota, but if he hits the open market, Cousins is the top option. Wilson slots in behind Cousins, while Ryan Tannehill, Gardner Minshew, Jacoby Brissett, and Jameis Winston round out the group.

Wilson is the only veteran available who won a Super Bowl as the starting quarterback for their team.