The Denver Broncos are heading into what could be their most explosive offseason in years, and at the center of it all is quarterback Russell Wilson. After another underwhelming season, the future of the 34-year-old signal-caller is suddenly in jeopardy, with major questions surrounding whether Wilson will remain in Denver or if the team will look to move on from the once-elite quarterback.
Despite being brought in to be the Broncos’ long-term solution under center, Wilson has struggled to live up to the massive expectations placed on him following his trade from the Seattle Seahawks in 2022. The 2024 season was a particularly difficult one for Wilson, who posted some of the worst numbers of his career, including a career-low touchdown-to-interception ratio and a decline in his overall performance. The Broncos finished the season with a losing record, missing the playoffs for the fourth consecutive year.
With the team’s championship window seemingly closing and ownership under new leadership, whispers of a potential Wilson trade have grown louder. NFL insiders are reporting that the Broncos’ front office is actively exploring options for Wilson, including the possibility of moving him in the offseason if the right offer comes through. The decision would signal a dramatic shift for the franchise, which had hoped Wilson would help return them to contention.
“This is the kind of crossroads that franchises don’t take lightly,” said an NFL analyst. “Russell Wilson was supposed to be the guy who led the Broncos back to glory. Instead, we’re looking at an organization that’s trying to figure out whether to cut its losses or double down and make another major commitment. It’s a risky decision, and it could define the next few years of this franchise.”
Wilson’s massive contract—still one of the most lucrative in the league—has only added to the complexities of the situation. Trading him would require a team to take on significant salary cap hits, but for a team in desperate need of a quarterback, Wilson could still be seen as a potential reclamation project.
Sources within the Broncos’ organization are hinting that the team is weighing the option of a complete rebuild, which could involve moving Wilson and several other veterans in exchange for draft picks and younger talent. However, there are also those within the organization who believe Wilson could still be part of the future if he is given a fresh start with new coaching and better offensive support.
“I think the Broncos have to ask themselves if they believe in Wilson long-term or if they’re just holding on to a name,” said a former Broncos player. “At some point, you have to make tough decisions about whether you’re building for the future or just clinging to the past. The way things are going, I wouldn’t be surprised if they decide to move on.”
Adding fuel to the fire, the Broncos’ new head coach, Sean Payton, has reportedly been evaluating all aspects of the team, including the quarterback position. While Payton has a history of success with quarterbacks like Drew Brees in New Orleans, there are no guarantees that Wilson is the right fit for his system. If Payton decides that Wilson isn’t the answer, the Broncos could enter the 2025 season with a new starting quarterback altogether.
The coming weeks will be crucial for Wilson’s future in Denver. With the NFL Draft approaching, all eyes are on the Broncos’ front office as they weigh whether to stick with Wilson, look for a trade partner, or take a complete risk and start fresh with a new quarterback. The decision could set the tone for the entire offseason and define the trajectory of the franchise for years to come.
For Wilson, who once led the Seattle Seahawks to a Super Bowl win, this offseason could prove to be a defining moment in his career. Will he stay in Denver and fight for his place, or will a change of scenery provide the fresh start he needs? Only time will tell, but one thing is clear: the stakes have never been higher for Russell Wilson and the Denver Broncos.
