The Denver Broncos 2024 offseason has been marked by a series of bold moves, signaling a significant shift in their approach to rebuilding the team.
According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), Denver’s best offseason decision was parting ways with quarterback Russell Wilson, despite the financial burden of an $85 million dead cap hit. The publication sees absorbing the largest dead cap hit in NFL history as a necessary step for the Broncos’ future. They believe it will reset the franchise and position themselves as contenders in the competitive AFC West division.
As PFF put it, “Yes, taking on a combined dead cap hit of $85 million to have one player not play for your franchise was the Broncos’ ‘best’ move.”
Russell Wilson’s Departure
Wilson’s brief tenure in Denver was met with high expectations. However, those expectations did not translate into consistent success for the franchise. They failed to make the playoffs in both of his seasons. Ultimately, the front office decided that the long-term benefits of releasing Wilson outweighed the immediate financial repercussions.
When head coach Sean Payton was asked in March whether it was difficult to make the expensive decision, he bluntly replied, “No.”
#Broncos HC Sean Payton with a one word answer on whether or not it was difficult to move on without Russell Wilson, 85 Million dollar dead cap hit and all pic.twitter.com/oYheLj5Pju
— Bob Pompeani (@KDPomp) March 26, 2024
This choice opened the door for Denver to explore new quarterback options without the constraints of Wilson’s costly contract. The financial flexibility gained by moving on from him allowed the team to redirect resources toward other areas of need.
Welcoming Bo Nix
In the wake of Wilson’s departure, the Broncos selected rookie quarterback Bo Nix. The University of Oregon alum was chosen with the 12th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Nix joined the team on a four-year deal worth a fully guaranteed $18.61 million. It also came with the opportunity to pick up a fifth-year option.
His addition strategically aimed to build a competitive team around a young, talented quarterback without the financial strain of a veteran’s high salary.
Investing in Key Areas
With Nix under a cost-controlled contract, the Broncos were able to sign other players to fill roster holes.
For instance, Denver signed linebacker Cody Barton to a one-year deal worth up to $4 million, addressing a vital need in their defense. Additionally, the team signed defensive lineman Malcolm Roach to a two-year, $8 million contract. They also signed safety Brandon Jones to replace Justin Simmons and Kareem Jackson. He inked a three-year deal worth $20 million, with $12.5 million guaranteed.
While the release of Wilson has sparked considerable debate, it symbolizes a broader strategy aimed at resetting the franchise’s trajectory. Additionally, the Broncos’ bold 2024 offseason moves highlight their readiness for tough decisions in pursuit of long-term success. The Broncos are determined to end their eight-season playoff drought and return to their winning ways. PFF thinks they’re headed in the right direction.