The Denver Broncos have made a strategic decision to bench their 35-year-old quarterback, Russell Wilson, for the final two games of the season. Head coach Sean Payton confirmed this decision, with Jarrett Stidham taking over as the starting quarterback for the upcoming game against the Los Angeles Chargers at Empower Field at Mile High on Sunday. The goal is to inject some much-needed spark into the team’s offense.

This decision is part of a larger strategy to potentially restructure the team’s roster in the offseason. Wilson is currently signed through 2028, but his guaranteed money only extends through 2024. If he remains on the roster at the start of the next league year on March 17, his entire 2025 salary of $37 million will be guaranteed. Therefore, the team is likely to make a decision on Wilson’s future before that deadline.

In the recent game against the New England Patriots, although it was a loss, Wilson demonstrated his skills by throwing two touchdown passes in the fourth quarter. This feat made him the first Broncos quarterback since Peyton Manning to throw at least one touchdown pass in each of the first 15 games of a season. Manning, who was present at the game with his son, has a personal history with the team. It’s also interesting to note that the only other NFL quarterback to achieve this feat this season is Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills.

The decision to start Jarrett Stidham over Wilson is significant. Stidham was signed to a two-year deal in the offseason, and the coaching staff is banking on him to bring energy and dynamism to the offense. This move represents a crucial moment for the team as they aim to end the season on a positive note.

As the Broncos navigate the final two games and consider their options for the future, benching Russell Wilson will undoubtedly impact the team’s quarterback situation moving forward. The upcoming weeks and months will play a pivotal role in defining the team’s strategic direction as they evaluate the best path forward.