DENVER – After just two seasons donning the orange and blue, the Russell Wilson experiment in Denver has come to an end. The Broncos made the tough decision to inform the veteran quarterback on Monday that he will be released after the start of the new league year on March 13th. This announcement marks the conclusion of what was hoped to be a fruitful partnership, but ultimately ended in disappointment for both parties involved.

In a joint statement, Broncos General Manager George Paton and Coach Sean Payton expressed their gratitude to Wilson for his contributions to the team and the community, while also emphasizing their commitment to building a stronger team for the upcoming season. Despite the disappointment of parting ways, both the organization and Wilson are looking towards the future with optimism.

The decision to release Wilson comes with significant financial implications for the Broncos. While the team will incur a substantial dead cap hit over the next two years, they will also avoid a hefty guaranteed payment for the 2025 season. This move signals a strategic shift for the Broncos, who are now tasked with rebuilding their roster and reshaping their identity for the seasons ahead.

Wilson’s tenure in Denver was marked by highs and lows, but ultimately fell short of expectations. Despite his impressive track record and undeniable talent, Wilson struggled to find his rhythm under Coach Nathaniel Hackett, who was relieved of his duties after a disappointing start to the season. Even with the arrival of Coach Payton, Wilson’s performance failed to reach the desired level, leading to his eventual benching and departure from the team.

In his 30 games as the Broncos’ quarterback, Wilson’s statistics were underwhelming, with an 11-19 record and modest passing numbers. Despite these struggles, Wilson’s legacy in the NFL remains intact, boasting impressive accolades and cementing his place as one of the league’s elite quarterbacks.

Looking ahead, the Broncos will turn to Jarrett Stidham, Ben DiNucci, and their 12th overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft to fill the void left by Wilson’s departure. While the road ahead may be challenging, there is optimism within the organization that they can build a competitive team for the 2024 season and beyond.

As Wilson embarks on the next chapter of his career, his time in Denver will serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of professional sports. Despite the disappointment of falling short of expectations, both Wilson and the Broncos remain determined to write the next chapter of their respective stories with renewed vigor and determination.