Denver, Colorado – The recent decision by the Broncos to part ways with quarterback Russell Wilson has left fans in Broncos country shocked and disappointed. Nearly two years after acquiring Wilson in a high-profile trade with the Seahawks, the Broncos have decided to cut ties with the star quarterback, raising questions about the wisdom of the initial deal.
The Broncos gave up a significant amount to land Wilson, including two first-round picks, two second-round picks, a fifth-round pick, tight end Noah Fant, quarterback Drew Lock, and defensive end Shelby Harris. In return, they received a 2022 fourth-round pick that resulted in defensive end Eyioma Uwazurike, who is currently serving a suspension for violating the NFL’s gambling policy. The Seahawks used the first-round selections to acquire tackle Charles Cross and cornerback Devon Witherspoon.
What made the trade even more costly for the Broncos was the decision to give Wilson a lucrative contract extension with $124 million guaranteed at signing, despite having two years remaining on his existing deal. The move has raised concerns about the team’s financial future and the impact on their ability to build and maintain a competitive roster.
The Broncos’ decision to move on from Wilson comes at a time when another high-profile quarterback trade, involving Deshaun Watson and the Cleveland Browns, has also faced scrutiny. The Browns gave up a significant number of draft picks and signed Watson to a massive contract, raising questions about the long-term implications of such an all-in move.
While both the Wilson and Watson trades have been criticized for their high costs and questionable returns, the Broncos deserve credit for acknowledging their mistake and taking steps to rectify it. By acknowledging the failure of the Wilson experiment and moving on, the Broncos are demonstrating a willingness to learn from their missteps and make necessary changes for the future.
Ultimately, the fallout from the Wilson trade serves as a cautionary tale for NFL teams considering high-stakes quarterback acquisitions. The Broncos’ decision to cut ties with Wilson may have been a painful one, but it highlights the importance of strategic decision-making and long-term planning in the highly competitive world of professional football.