On Tuesday, the Broncos reshaped the AFC West landscape, agreeing to a massive trade with the Seahawks for Russell Wilson.
Denver sent Seattle DE Shelby Harris, QB Drew Lock, and TE Noah Fant, along with two first-rounders, two second-rounders, and one fifth-round pick to acquire the nine-time Pro Bowler and a fourth-rounder, according to Ian Rapoport — who called it “one of the biggest trades in NFL history.”
Wilson joins a division stacked with star QBs Patrick Mahomes, Derek Carr, and Justin Herbert.
- Wilson will play out the third season of the four-year, $140 million contract he signed in April 2019.
- His $24 million 2022 cap hit ranks 24th in the league.
- Per Jay Glazer, Wilson was willing to waive his no-trade clause.
- In 2021, Wilson put up 3,113 yards, 25 passing touchdowns against just six interceptions for a 103.1 QB rating — fifth in the NFL — in only 14 games.
Denver hasn’t been able to establish its franchise quarterback since Peyton Manning retired in 2015 — the last time the Broncos made the postseason — cycling through 11 different starters.
They struggled to a 7-10 record last season with Teddy Bridgewater under center, finishing 19th in passing yards per game (211.4) and 23rd in points (19.7).
With a defense that ranked third in points (18.9) and eighth in yards (326.1), a Super Bowl champ like Wilson could be all the team needs.
