Dec 25, 2022; Inglewood, California, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson (3) throws the ball against the Los Angeles Rams in the second half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
NFL: Denver Broncos at Los Angeles Rams
(New York, NY) — The blockbuster trade in March of 2022 that landed the Broncos Russell Wilson for a haul of young assets almost didn’t happen.
The Philadelphia Eagles were reported to have a trade in place to land the former Super Bowl Champ ahead of the 2022 NFL Draft until it was rejected by Wilson.
After the deal fell apart the Eagles turned the reins to Jalen Hurts who led the team to a league best 14-3 record and appearance in this past years Super Bowl.
“I think what I would say is that the Eagles really wanted him, because he’s similar to Jalen Hurts, especially when he was in his prime,” Sports Illustrated’s Greg Bishop said. “My understanding is that at that point in time, Russ wanted to stay here [in Seattle].”
With a no trade clause included in his contract, Wilson opted to invoke it on multiple instances. The 34-year-old also turned down an offer that would have sent him to the Washington Commanders. The quarterback was essentially only willing to waive his clause for the Broncos, who topped his wish list.
“He turned down the Washington [Commanders] offer. He turned down an offer from Philly during the Combine. And the Denver situation was the clear-cut, number one choice for him going into all these other teams,” Bishop added.
The blockbuster trade is already being regarded as one of the most controversial moves, after a disappointing season from the former Pro Bowler. The Broncos had high expectations approaching this past season which came up drastically short after posting an underwhelming 5-12 record.
With four years remaining on his $296 million contract, the Broncos seek a bounce back season with newly acquired head coach Sean Payton at the helm.
