Former Saints coach Sean Payton benches Russell Wilson
While in New Orleans, Sean Payton had his quarterback. New Orleans Saints legend Drew Brees held down that fort during his tenure. There was never a period of doubt with him at QB. Now, in Denver, Payton is dealing with a new challenge. His veteran quarterback is not playing up to the standard that he […]
While in New Orleans, Sean Payton had his quarterback. New Orleans Saints legend Drew Brees held down that fort during his tenure. There was never a period of doubt with him at QB.
Now, in Denver, Payton is dealing with a new challenge. His veteran quarterback is not playing up to the standard that he prefers, and he is making a change with multiple major factors.
The Broncos are benching Russell Wilson in favor of backup QB Jarrett Stidham to finish out the season.
For one, it is a performance-based decision – to a degree. How can you know? Wilson will be the backup to Stidham. Therefore, he could see the field in the instance of an injury.
Wilson's contract has also been a popular topic. The decision points to the end of Wilson's starting time for the Broncos. Wilson has $37M in 2025 salary that vests in March of 2024. If he suffered a serious injury in the final two games of this season, it would complicate matters.
It's not a new type of move in the NFL. Three other veteran quarterbacks have dealt with this type of move near the end of their time with that specific organization.
The Las Vegas Raiders benched Derek Carr last season. The Raiders also benched Jimmy Garoppolo in a similar scenario. Also, the Indianapolis Colts benched Matt Ryan at the end of his time there.
All four happenings included the player having an injury guarantee that would become fully-guaranteed if he could not pass a physical in the offseason.
In essence, Payton is dealing with his own type of 'Derek Carr situation' with Denver.
Wilson is an expensive veteran that does not seem to be in the future plans of the team/staff. Additionally, he has not been playing well enough to risk an injury with the team unlikely to reach the postseason.
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