The Denver Broncos have opted not to exercise Zach Wilson’s rookie contract fifth-year option, per Chris Tomasson of the Denver Gazette. If exercised, Wilson would have been guaranteed $22.408 million in 2025.
This decision now allows Wilson to become a free agent in the upcoming offseason. Despite high expectations when selected second overall in 2021 by the Jets, Wilson’s performance has fallen short, labeling him as a historic bust.
The Jets sought alternatives, including signing Aaron Rodgers in 2023, but Wilson reclaimed his starting role after Rodgers’ injury. The NFL offseason promises intrigue as Wilson and the Broncos navigate their next moves.
Jets Transfer Wilson’s Struggle
Zach Wilson had moments of brilliance, but he was inconsistent with the New York Jets, finishing the 2023 season with eight touchdowns and seven interceptions in 12 games. In the eleven games he started, the Jets could only muster a 4-7 record. Wilson finished with a 57% completion percentage, 6.3 yards per attempt, and 185.1 yards per game across his 34 games in New York.
He also had 23 touchdowns versus 25 interceptions. To give the potential yet-developing quarterback a fresh start, the Jets traded Wilson to the Broncos last week.
The Broncos made a risk-free trade of a late-round choice to get Wilson in an intriguing move. Wilson adds a dynamic element to a team that was led by career backup Jarrett Stidham when he arrived. Bo Nix, an Oregon quarterback, was selected in the 12th round of the draft, so it’s unclear who will start right away.
If Nix takes some time to get used to the new environment, Wilson will have the opportunity to show off his skills and increase his worth before he becomes a free agent.
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