In a surprise move, the Broncos have announced that quarterback Russell Wilson will not start this week against the Chargers. Backup Jarrett Stidham will now start in Week 17 with Wilson backing him up.
The move comes on the heels of potential future financial implications for the Broncos should Wilson wind up severely injured during the team’s final two games. As it stands, Wilson is fully guaranteed $39 million for the 2024 season. However, if he is unable to pass a physical in March of 2024, he’d be guaranteed an additional $37 million. With the Broncos unsure if Wilson is still their quarterback of the future, the team is choosing to keep him out of harm’s way while simultaneously seeing what they have in the younger Stidham.