The Denver Broncos have opted for a pivotal quarterback change as they approach the final two weeks of the regular NFL season.
According to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport, the Broncos will sideline Russell Wilson for the remaining games, with Jarrett Stidham set to take the helm against the Chargers this Sunday. This move, confirmed by NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero, positions Wilson as the backup for Week 17.
Financial considerations appear to be a driving force behind this decision. Rapoport notes Wilson's substantial injury guarantee for 2025, which fully kicks in come March. By safeguarding Wilson from potential injury in these final games, the Broncos aim to retain financial flexibility should they opt to part ways with the 35-year-old quarterback in 2024, despite no definite decisions yet.
Wilson's contract outlines a significant $39 million fully guaranteed for 2024, adding weight to the financial implications of this quarterback switch.
Head coach Sean Payton acknowledged the alteration during a press conference, emphasizing the team's pursuit of offensive momentum as the primary motive behind this strategic move.
This quarterback transition echoes a similar tactic employed by the Las Vegas Raiders last season, where a starter was benched in favor of the backup, leading to Stidham's current opportunity in Denver after joining the team this offseason.
While Wilson showcased improvement under Payton's guidance compared to his turbulent debut season in 2022, recent offensive struggles and a strained interaction with Payton during the Week 15 loss highlight uncertainties about Wilson's future with the team.
Despite clawing back from a challenging 1-5 start to the season with a notable winning streak, the Broncos' playoff prospects have dimmed after recent losses, particularly the defeat to New England.
Wilson's performance this year, though statistically sound with a 66.4% completion rate, 3,070 yards, 26 touchdowns, and eight interceptions, falls short of the initial hopes pinned on him to elevate Denver's playoff aspirations.
Coach Payton plans to use the remaining games to assess Stidham's capabilities, drawing from his previous experience with the Las Vegas Raiders.
With two games left and slim playoff chances, currently at 8% according to Next Gen Stats, the Broncos look to Stidham to secure victories against the Chargers and Raiders, potentially keeping their postseason hopes alive with some assistance.
The decision to bench Wilson underscores Payton's readiness to evaluate prospects for the 2024 season, a crucial step as he continues to shape and refine the team roster according to his vision.