According to Chris Tomasson of the Denver Gazette, the Denver Broncos intend to refuse quarterback Zach Wilson’s fifth-year option on his rookie contract.
The deadline to exercise fifth-year options for 2021 first-round picks is Thursday. If Wilson had exercised his option, he would have received a guaranteed $22.408 million in 2025. Instead, he’ll be a free agent next offseason.
Denver’s decision to forgo that option comes as no surprise. It’s noteworthy, given that the Jets drafted Wilson second overall in 2021, believing he’d cure their long-standing quarterback issues. Instead, he’s been a historic failure.
Wilson was benched many times in his first two seasons, causing the Jets to acquire Aaron Rodgers as quarterback in 2023. Wilson then replaced Rodgers, who suffered a torn Achilles tendon on his first possession with the Jets.
Wilson continued to struggle in 2023, passing for eight touchdowns and seven interceptions in twelve games. The Jets went 4-7 in the 11 games he started. In 34 career games in New York, Wilson completed 57% of his passes, averaging 6.3 yards per attempt and 185.1 yards per game, with 23 touchdowns and 25 interceptions. The Jets traded Wilson to the Broncos last week.
The Broncos acquired Wilson in exchange for a risk-free late-round selection pick. Jarrett Stidham, a seasoned backup quarterback, was the team’s best option at the time. The Broncos took Oregon quarterback Bo Nix with the 12th pick in the draft on Thursday.
It is unknown whether Nix will be ready to start right away. If he isn’t, Wilson may have the opportunity to play and raise his profile before approaching free agency.
GET MORE NEWS HERE
Leave a Reply