Although Russell Wilson was brought into the Denver Broncos with the intention of having a significant influence, his first season was more negative than positive, including one particularly awful throw. All season long, Wilson and the Bronco’s offense struggled, not the least of which was a serious issue with the head coaching position. Nathaniel Hackett, the team’s coach for less than a year, was stripped of his duties for this reason.
With the addition of Sean Payton via a trade with the New Orleans Saints, the Denver Broncos are hoping that their coaching situation won’t be an issue this season. Their resume of Payton speaks for itself.
He frequently oversaw potent offenses propelled by Drew Brees, and the Saints were perennial NFC title challengers after developing a championship-caliber defense (particularly in his final few seasons as head coach).
In Denver, Payton confronts a comparable predicament. When you consider that the offense only averaged 16.9 points per game, the lowest figure in the league, the Bronco’s defense held its own throughout the season, allowing 21.1 points per game, good for 14th in the league.
Mike McGlinchey: Russell Wilson is a Hall of Famer and Sean Payton will elevate his game. https://t.co/mBugYduO5P
ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) March 23, 2023
Read More: Paddy Lowe Can’t Believe Mercedes Won’t Acknowledge the 2014 Season Was a Success!
Russell Wilson Forgot Which Team He Was on For a Play Last Year
In addition to coaching being a significant issue for the Broncos, Russell Wilson was also a significant issue. He suffered a career-low year because he was unable to get into the same rhythm he had with the Seahawks earlier in his career.
Overall, the team’s 5-12 record was the result of weak coaching, subpar quarterback play, and an uncoordinated offensive scheme. As a result of the Seahawks’ inability to field a strong supporting cast, Wilson wanted a trade from the team.
The ex-star quarterback, however, was among the worst in the league last season. He only completed 15 of his 11 passes for touchdowns, averaging 234.9 yards per game. For someone of Wilson’s caliber, scoring fewer than a touchdown per game is inexcusable.
There was also this toss that caused NFL fans to wonder if Wilson remembered that he changed teams.
Wilson and The Broncos Are Primed to Improve
It’s simple to think that Wilson is done after looking at last year’s performance. Yet given that the quarterback is 34 years old (still not too old), and that he had a few standout seasons in Seattle before moving to Denver, we are confident that things are about to change.
However, Sean Payton already has a strategy in place to help Wilson and the difficulties he faced. Back in February, he discussed Wilson’s attributes and strengths.
Mike McGlinchey: Russell Wilson is a Hall of Famer and Sean Payton will elevate his game. https://t.co/mBugYduO5P
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) March 23, 2023
According to NOLA.com, he described himself as a dedicated worker who has played at a high level and won many games. We are under pressure to develop a strong running game and lessen the demands on his position. I’m thrilled to meet him.
He continued, “I know they did a terrific job in Seattle getting him off a nude boot and then pulling up.” The ball then traveled 60 yards in the air as Tyler Lockett made a throwback to him across the field. To get Wilson back to where he was, Payton is prepared to do his homework.
