Russell Wilson Benched for Jarrett Stidham: Report

The Denver Broncos are benching quarterback Russell Wilson in favor of Jarrett Stidham, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Head coach Sean Payton met with Wilson to inform him this morning before notifying the team. The decision primarily centers around injury guarantees in Wilson's contract — an additional $37 million would become fully-guaranteed should Wilson not be able to pass a physical in early March, per Adam Schefter.

With Denver sitting at 7-8 and a long shot to make the playoffs, the decision seems to signal the end of not only Wilson's season, but perhaps his time with the Broncos altogether.

Wilson is already guaranteed $39 million next season. Should the Broncos release the star quarterback pre-March 17, Denver would have $85 million of dead cap next season, per Spotrac. A June 1 release designation ensures a $35.4 million cap hit in '24 and $49.6 million dead cap hit in '25.

Denver traded two first-round picks, two second rounders, a fifth rounder and three players for Wilson last season.

Originally on a five-year, $242 million deal in Denver, only $124 million was guaranteed at signing, with an additional $37 million guaranteed afterward.

Stidham is 0-2 as a starter in his career.