“Russell Wilson… Complete Opposite of a Raider”: Pat McAfee Explains Why Las Vegas Probably Won’t Sign QB Post Broncos Exit

Russell Wilson is officially out of the Denver Broncos and is ready to find a new home. Speculations were abounded throughout the off-season, with coach Sean Payton visibly unhappy with the quarterback. The only point of contention was the massive $85 million dead salary cap, but Denver decided to bear the loss and rest the case.

Wilson seems to have made peace with the decision and wrote on Instagram, “I’m excited for what’s next.” Having spent over 12 seasons in the NFL and two Super Bowl appearances, Wilson makes for an enticing addition to any team’s roster. While options for the quarterback seem to be aplenty, a financial angle and the question of being the right fit might hinder his salary prospects.

Pat McAfee backs LV as not the ideal place for Russell Wilson

Among the top landing spots for Wilson were the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Las Vegas Raiders. As per a recent report, the Steelers are not inclined to pursue the former Broncos QB and intend to work on their current asset, Kenny Pickett. And according to sports analyst Pat McAfee, Las Vegas might not be the right fit for Wilson.

The host pointed out the problems with the possibility of the Raiders picking Wilson for their upcoming season. McAfee discussed what attributes Raiders look for in their roster and feels Wilson is the “completely opposite of a Raider.” The guest mentioned how the Raiders look for a certain physique, agility, and “guys that can run.”

McAfee added that there is a certain personality traits that make up a Vegas player. He mentioned that “cockiness” and “swagger” are some features that potentially a QB like Wilson lacks.

Talking about skills and experience alone, Wilson presents himself as a good addition to the roster. However, considering the intricate contract terms, the quarterback could find himself in a tough spot when it comes to play.

Will Wilson have to play with the minimum salary?

The Denver Broncos got Wilson from the Seattle Seahawks via trade in 2022. They got the quarterback with an expensive 5-year contract worth $245 million and a lot of expectations. However, after a disappointing 2022 season and a slightly better but still unsatisfactory next season, Denver’s management was unhappy with Wilson. The 35-year-old was even benched for the last two games of the 2023 season, and it seemed clear that his days in the team were numbered. The only factor that delayed Denver’s decision was the heavy dead cap they would have to bear.

With their decision to release Wilson, Denver will pay him dead money of $85 million over the next two seasons. Next season, the team is liable to pay their former quarterback $39 million. However, his new salary pay will be deducted from the payable amount. This means if any team is splurging on Wilson, they’re essentially helping Denver with their financial issue.

This puts Wilson in a tricky situation and he might not even be aware of it, as expressed by McAfee. The minimum veteran salary is $1.21 million, as per Spotrac. And according to the host, “Whatever nickel he earns over the minimum salary, Denver gets off the hook.”

Read This: “Extortion”: Ex-Broncos’ Star Alleges Foul Play as Russell Wilson Explains Rejecting Changes in Injury Guarantees

With these new aspects in play, it is hard to say how will the upcoming season look like for Russell Wilson. The veteran quarterback has worked his way to a Super Bowl trophy during his time with the Seahawks and has nine Pro Bowls under his belt. With several records to his name, hopefully, Wilson will be able to wash out the stagnancy of his last two seasons and redeem his old glory in his new home.