Broncos to release Russell Wilson after 2 seasons

 The Denver Broncos will release Russell Wilson after free agency officially opens this month, the team said in a statement Monday.

"We spoke with Russell Wilson today to inform him of his release following the start of the league year," general manager George Payton and head coach Sean Payton said in a joint statement. “On behalf of the Broncos, we thank Russell for his contributions and dedication to our team and community, and wish him all the best as he continues his career.”

“As we move forward, we are focused on building the strongest team we can for the 2024 season and beyond. We are excited to improve this offseason and continue to get better through the draft and free agency.” We will have flexibility."

The Broncos said Wilson would be officially released after the new league year began on March 13.

Wilson thanked Broncos fans and his teammates for their support in a separate statement.

"Over the past two years, you have welcomed my family and I with open arms and embraced us as members of the Denver community," he said. "This city will always hold a special place in my heart. Our family grew up here, we made countless memories and friendships and formed relationships that will last a lifetime."

He concluded his statement by saying, “Tough times don't last, but tough people do.

"God's got me. I'm excited for what's next."

The Broncos acquired Wilson from the Seattle Seahawks in a blockbuster trade before the start of the 2022 season. Denver gave up several draft picks in the deal, along with Noah Fant, Shelby Harris and Drew Lock.

Wilson was set to be the starting quarterback with new head coach Nathaniel Hackett. However, the Broncos faltered out of the gate and finished 5–12.

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The Broncos hired Payton to replace Hackett after the 2022 season, but Wilson lost his job to Jarrett Stidham despite a key win over the eventual Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs.

Wilson played in 15 games during the 2023 season. He had 3,070 passing yards, 26 touchdown passes and eight interceptions.

He said on a recent episode of the "I'm an Athlete" podcast that he wants to stay with the Broncos.

"Honestly, especially in the last two years and what I've been through, I'm on fire more than ever," the 35-year-old Super Bowl champion said. "Whether it's in Denver or somewhere else. I hope it's in Denver. I hope I can finish there. I've committed there. I want to be there."

He said he wanted to win at least two more Super Bowls in the next five years.

Wilson said, "For me, it's about winning. In the next five years, I want to win two." "I want to feel the cool of that trophy again. I love the city and everything, but you also want to be in a place that loves you. I want to win, that's all I care about."

The Super Bowl champion quarterback will be free to find a new team in the offseason.

Denver finished 8-9 in 2023 and now looks to see who might be the best fit for a Payton-led offense.