Minnesota Vikings Trade Rumors: Broncos in Hot Water After Russell Wilson’s $37 Million Cap Issue

Russell Wilson’s contract with the Denver Broncos is under scrutiny. The quarterback inked a substantial five-year extension in 2022, totaling a staggering $245 million. But that was not all he got. Wilson is set to pocket another whopping $39 million for the 2024 season, including an additional $37 million injury guarantee for the 2025 season if he is present on the March roster.

Since injured players can’t be cut, Broncos’ owner Rob Walton would still owe Wilson if he doesn’t pass the spring physical. But looks like the Broncos don’t want to let go of either the injury guarantee or the no-trade clause in his contract as they try to rework his deal. This situation could lead Russell to receive a lifeline from the Minnesota Vikings to replace another QB. However, in a recent podcast, it was discussed how the Broncos might retain their quarterback.

Russell Wilson’s contract clause raises questions for Broncos

Russell Wilson’s financial ties with the Denver Broncos carry a significant caveat, considering the looming uncertainty surrounding Wilson’s health in the final two games of the current season. Acquired from the Seattle Seahawks before the 2022 season, Wilson’s five-year, $242.6 million contract extension is set to take effect officially in the upcoming year.

Examining this on the podcast ‘DNVR Sports’, they talked about the potential future of Wilson at the Broncos. They said, “There’s no good answer, at this point, there’s like no like the Broncos should do this, and that will solve all their problems. So like, why not like bring back Russ, like run it back in terms of next year? I think that probably makes you the best football team like I don’t think that there’s a better option.”

Furthermore, the analyst said, “At the same time you’re also committing to paying well. First of all, it means he’s probably back for two more years because you pay him the same amount whether he’s here one year or two years because that 2025 salary becomes guaranteed this offseason.”

Russell claimed he was benched after the Broncos asked him to amend his contract, although that has since been disputed by general manager George Paton. He said, “In regards of the negotiations, I’ll just keep the specifics private out of respect for really everyone involved. Negotiations are hard. You have difficult conversations, tough conversations, and you can characterize negotiations really any way you want. We always try to handle ourselves professionally and in the best interests of the Broncos, and this was no different.”

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Russell Wilson could be on the move again this offseason after his situation with the Denver Broncos turned sour. However, the prospect of Wilson donning the purple and gold has ignited discussions about the potential impact on the Vikings’ future campaigns.

Vikings entangled in QB carousel: Russell Wilson’s potential move

Amidst the ongoing rumors and speculations surrounding the QB landscape for the upcoming season, the Minnesota Vikings find themselves entangled in the quarterback carousel. As the 2023 season concludes, the Vikings are grappling with uncertainty at the quarterback position. They are now linked to the potential departure of Russell Wilson from the Denver Broncos.

According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the possibility of the Vikings becoming a target for soon-to-be free agent Russell Wilson hinges on the team’s actions regarding Kirk Cousins. Fowler suggests that if the Vikings refrain from signing Cousins to an extension before free agency, it could open the door for Wilson to consider joining Minnesota. Fowler said, “Don’t be surprised if Wilson, should he become a free agent, is intrigued by Minnesota, assuming Kirk Cousins doesn’t re-sign with the Vikings.”

Kirk Cousins suffered a season-ending Achilles injury and is wanted back by the Vikings at the right price but he could opt to test free agency and that may open the door for Wilson to replace him. Furthermore, Fowler added, “[Baker] Mayfield is a free agent, and if Tampa Bay can’t reach a new deal with him, the Bucs would make a lot of sense for Wilson.”

Wilson now has a lot of paths he could move toward, but what decision the veteran QB will take for himself? What do you think? Which team will he choose? Let us know in the comments below.

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