Can the Denver Broncos fully move on from the Russell Wilson era?

As the Denver Broncos move into a new era following the release of Russell Wilson, Sean Payton and co. are re-shaping the roster in all three facets of the club.

In PFF’s latest projections, the Broncos could look to bring in a veteran’s presence to help Patrick Surtain II and co. in the secondary in the form of former Houston Texans cornerback, Steven Nelson.

“Nelson was a great fit for the Houston Texans in back-to-back seasons despite a defensive shift from Lovie Smith to DeMeco Ryans. He has logged a healthy dose of snaps in so many different coverage schemes dating back to his days with the Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers and Kansas City Chiefs. The ever-consistent Nelson played 950-plus snaps for the sixth consecutive season in 2023, best suited in off coverage with great lateral agility and the instincts to click and close still popping up on tape in coverage and run support.”

Pittsburgh Steelers
Dec 24, 2023; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson (3) before the game against the New England Patriots at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Denver Broncos’ Drama with Russell Wilson Clouds New Era Heading Into 2024
Russell Wilson signed a five-year, $242 million deal with the Broncos following the trade between Denver and Wilson’s longtime home, the Seattle Seahawks following the 2021 season. The club bit the bullet and amicably parted ways with the potential future Hall of Fame signal-caller ahead of the new league year on March 1.

Wilson signed a one-year, veteran minimum ($1.21 million) deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers, shortly after his departure with the Broncos became official. While Wilson will reportedly be starting in Pittsburgh following the club trading former first-round pick, Kenny Pickett to the Philadelphia Eagles, Denver will still be paying Wilson $39 million to not play for them in 2024.