Denver Broncos cut Russell Wilson, paving way for Bo Nix
- The Denver Broncos ended their partnership with Russell Wilson after the 2023 NFL season, taking on substantial dead cap space.
- With Bo Nix now leading the team, the Broncos are nearing their first playoff appearance since 2015.
- The decision to release Wilson has been scrutinized, standing in stark contrast to the improved performance under Nix.
In a surprising move, the Denver Broncos decided to part ways with Russell Wilson after the conclusion of the 2023 NFL season, leading to the team absorbing an extensive $85 million in dead cap space. At the time of his release, Wilson's contract still guaranteed $39 million. The Broncos' decision came amid a disappointing two-year span with Wilson as their quarterback, during which the team experienced a struggle with one of the league's lowest-scoring offenses, failing to reach the NFL playoffs for several seasons. Following Wilson's departure, rookie quarterback Bo Nix stepped in and has since improved the team's performance, bringing them to the brink of their first NFL playoff appearance since 2015. The transition has sparked a debate on Wilson's legacy with the Broncos and Nix's potential as a leading rookie candidate for the NFL's Rookie of the Year award.