Broncos Benching Russell Wilson for Contract Reasons, per Report

Denver will reportedly sit him for the rest of the season despite still being alive in the playoff race.

After their latest loss during a crucial push for the playoffs, the Denver Broncos are benching quarterback Russell Wilson for the last two games of the season for contract reasons despite still being eligible for the postseason, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. Jarrett Stidham will start the team’s final two games.

Wilson has $37 million salary for the 2025 season that vests in March of 2024. It would also becomes fully guaranteed if Wilson cannot pass a physical at that time. With the stunning move, all signs point toward Denver cutting ties with Wilson during the offseason before that date in order to preserve some financial flexibility for the future.

• Orr: Russell Wilson Is Out of NFL Options

The Broncos will move Russell Wilson to the bench and start Jarrett Stidham for the final two games of the regular season, per multiple reports pic.twitter.com/Zd33mXcTTo

— Sports Illustrated (@SInow) December 27, 2023

Wilson’s season ends with 3,070 passing yards and 26 touchdown passes to eight interceptions while Stidham, a 27-year-old journeyman, steps in for the Broncos. Denver currently has a 6% chance to make the playoffs, according to The New York Times. 

Stidham will look to lead the Broncos (7–8) against the Chargers (5–10) on Sunday at 4:25 p.m. ET on CBS.