as a quarterback Russell Wilson According to the account, his job was in jeopardy nearly two months ago after the Denver Broncos’ big win.
During the bye week after an Oct. 29 win over the Kansas City Chiefs, Wilson said he was facing an ultimatum from the team: “Fix his contract or risk being benched.” ”
He didn’t move. A few weeks later, Wilson is now finishing out the season on the sideline. His time in Denver may be over.
A disappointed Wilson spoke to the media after Friday’s practice for the first time since he was demoted by coach Sean Payton earlier this week. Wilson will be demoted to a backup role to Jarrett Stidham for Sunday’s game against the Los Angeles Chargers (5-10).
The timing of Wilson’s benching was puzzling, as the Broncos (7-8) still have a chance to make the playoffs, albeit a narrow one.
But warning signs were present. He said he was approached about the structure of the contract shortly after helping Denver end a 16-game losing streak against the defending Super Bowl champion Chiefs. Wilson signed a five-year, $245 million contract extension last year that begins next season. He has a clause that says he has a $37 million roster guarantee if he does not pass a physical on the fifth day of March in the 2024 league year.
“It definitely hurt. It was a blow for a little while,” Wilson said of the argument, which occurred during Denver’s five-game winning streak. “There’s a reason I came here and that’s to win more championships. That’s still my focus. I’m under contract. I want to do whatever it takes. . That’s why I’m going to practice the right way and do everything the right way.”
After the contract episode, it was difficult for him to look over his shoulder. He led the team to wins over Buffalo, Minnesota, and Cleveland and back into the playoff picture. But the Broncos fell into a slump after that, dropping three of their final four games. The Chiefs need a win and a loss in their remaining two games to reach the postseason for the first time since winning the Super Bowl following the 2015 season.
Wilson dodged a question about whether there was anything he could do with his contract to encourage him to stay with the Broncos.
“My focus this week is just trying to be the best teammate I can be,” Wilson said. “That’s what I’ve realized during this whole process. Just focus this week. Focus on being the best teammate you can be.”
He was reluctant to sign off on anything contract-related because of the constant risk of injury. He was sacked 45 times this season and 55 times last season.
“Every time I stepped on the field, I knew this was a physical game,” said Wilson, who threw for 3,070 yards, 26 TD passes and eight interceptions this season. “I never play cowardly. I never play scared. That’s the way I’ve always played.
“I love this game. I love this team. I love my teammates too. For sure, it’s unfortunate. It was tough for me for sure.”
When asked about Wilson’s contract status, Payton said he was not aware of any discussions that the front office and general manager George Payton may have had. Payton added that he’s focused on giving his team the best chance to earn an eighth win this season, even if it means benching the nine-time Pro Bowler.
“It’s a difficult decision,” said Payton, who turned 60 on Friday. “For me, all I’m interested in right now in my career is to get another win. There’s no other reason. Russ had a great week. He did well professionally. He took care of it.”
As for Wilson’s future, Payton said he will evaluate the overall strategy before making a decision after the season.
“We look at every player, starting with trainers, strength (coaches), position coaches, coordinators, pro staff, general managers and head coaches,” Payton said. “I’ll do it, but I haven’t made any decisions yet. Not just Russ, but the other players as well.”
For now, Wilson is focused on helping Stidham understand the situation by answering questions, looking at game film and anything else he needs. He’s not worried about what might happen next.
“I wake up every day and know it’s a gift to be able to play this game,” Wilson said. “I appreciate that. I hope it’s here. And I hope it’s here for a long time. … If it’s not here, we’re ready to do it somewhere else. But , I hope it’s here.”
Notes: The Broncos were without receiver Courtland Sutton (concussion), linebacker Baron Browning (concussion) and tight end Greg Dulcich (hamstring/foot) for Sunday’s game. Receivers Jerry Jeudy (illness) and Marvin Mims Jr. (hamstring) are questionable.
AP Pro Football Writer Rob Mardy contributed to this report.