Russell Wilson has perhaps become the NFL world’s favorite punching back. The backlash received by the 34-year-old is majorly caused by his performance thus far, in comparison to the hefty contract he was offered. Wilson was supposed to be the Broncos’ redemption. Instead, they’ve just handed out one of the biggest contracts in the league to finish at the bottom of their division. However, a legendary former Broncos Safety claims that he saw the downfall of Russell Wilson coming.

At the start of the season, Broncos Nations anticipated the Wilson trade. They were hoping to be backed by a quarterback who could potentially be a worthy opposition to the biggest threat in their division, the Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes. Ironically, the only threat to the Broncos is Rusell Wilson himself.

Russell Wilson is not garnering the best of reactions from the NFL world

With mediocre performances throughout the year, the QB has shown little to no improvement. Former Broncos safety and winner of Super Bowl 5o, TJ Ward, is not amused with their situation right now. In fact, Ward states that he predicted the Broncos’ downfall. In a conversation with CBS Sports’ Damon Amendolara, Ward didn’t sound too happy with the hype Wilson brought in at the start of the season.  He said, “I didn’t like all the rave and rage when Russell came in about Super Bowl contenders and winning the division because I know what it takes to get all that done and one player doesn’t come in and things change overnight.” Ward also added that he foresaw this backfiring on Wilson and the Broncos.

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Ward’s foresight is understandable. As a former player who was a part of a Super Bowl-winning team, he understands the work it takes to build a solid unit. He added, “I just felt the backfire coming.” It’s quite embarrassing for the team as a whole. What was an anticipated trade became a laughable spectacle.

Wilson is here for the long haul

Russell Wilson doesn’t seem to be a fan favorite. However, fans have made ‘Mr. Unlimited’ their most favored punching bad. Apart from his actions on the field, Wilson’s every move is being analyzed and made fun of. Rumors of division in the locker room do not help his case either. So what is a man to do? With Denver hitting rock bottom, there is no way else to go but up.

But how will that happen when the person who was supposed to alter the franchise’s fate this season hasn’t showcased anything above mediocrity? Wilson’s former team, the Seahawks are doing way better than the league could’ve imagined. When everyone thought they were doomed after Wilson’s departure, the Seahawks proved them wrong. The Broncos have a long journey ahead. They will take on divisional rivals the Kansas City Chiefs in their next bout. Broncos Nation won’t keep their hopes up. Their ride to the postseason has long departed.

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