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The Denver Broncos signed Russell Wilson to a five-year contract extension after acquiring him from the Seattle Seahawks during the 2022 offseason. The move came after a period of instability at the quarterback position for the Broncos, with a different player starting every season since 2017.
The signing of Wilson (a Pro Bowl and Super Bowl winner) generated a lot of media attention. Adding to the excitement, the Broncos also appointed Nathaniel Hackett as their new head coach. Many Broncos fans were optimistic about the team's future and there was a lot of hype in the preseason.
The new lineup was designed to challenge the Kansas City Chiefs for the divisional title and make a run for the Super Bowl. Wilson's contract was worth $245 million, with $165 million guaranteed and would tie him down in Denver for seven years.
All that hope and promise came crashing down in the 2022 regular season. Wilson had the worst campaign of his career (career-low rating of 84.4, career-low of 16 touchdowns, third-most interceptions in a season with 11).
If that wasn't bad enough, the situation worsened further when Nathaniel Hackett was sacked as head coach. Tensions ran high within the team, with visible conflicts and scuffles taking place on the sidelines.
What can be done to make things better?
#1. Hire a head coach who has faith in Russell Wilson's abilities
Hackett was not confident in Wilson's ability to lead the team and make crucial plays. This was evident from the first week of the season when he took the ball away from his quarterback and chose to attempt a 64-yard field goal instead (which ultimately resulted in a loss against Seattle, Wilson's former team).
This decision set the tone for what was the rest of the season and created issues within the team. It was an opportunity for Wilson to prove himself against the team that traded him and was seen as Hackett lacking trust.
The next coach hired by the Broncos should strive to design plays that capitalize on Wilson's strengths and improve the overall offensive performance of the team.
#2. Utilize the running game
While it would be ideal to have a $245 million quarterback surrounded by top-tier talent, the current situation calls for alternative solutions. Wilson is having a difficult time connecting with his receivers. By neglecting to bring in more stars, the team risks five more years of subpar performance.
To address this, the Broncos should prioritize enhancing the running game by increasing the number of carries given to their running backs. Running the ball more effectively can help the underperforming Wilson in several ways. It can take some of the pressure off him by establishing a balanced offensive attack.
Javonte Williams went down early in the campaign with a season-ending injury. The Broncos had capable replacements and signed Latavius Murray, who played well. But at no point did they manage to dominate games with their running backs and seemed to abandon the run too early.
Williams is an extremely talented RB and should be leaned on heavily to keep defenses honest.
#3. Improve team dynamics
There is currently a lack of cohesion within the Broncos team. This was evident when defensive tackle Mike Purcell shouted at Wilson during a game on the sidelines. To improve the team's performance, the Broncos should work on building better relationships and fostering a sense of unity among players.
Reports have surfaced that some players are unhappy with Russell Wilson having his own office and private parking. When players sense excessive preferential treatment given to one player, it can cause resentment and negatively impact the team's dynamics.
The team should aim to scale back on any preferential treatment given to Wilson or find a way to make the team accept it without affecting the team's performance.
While the 2022 campaign did not go to plan, there's no cause to panic just yet in Denver. A solid draft (they got a first-round pick for Bradley Chubb) and the right head coach and things could change dramatically for Russell Wilson and the Broncos.
