In a shocking turn of events, Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson confirmed on Friday that the team forced his hand over his contract. Wilson revealed that the Broncos threatened to bench him for the remainder of the season if he did not defer his $37 million injury guarantee. The ultimatum came during the bye week in October, shortly after the team's victory against the Chiefs. Wilson expressed his disappointment about the situation, stating that he was excited about the team's playoff prospects and getting on a hot streak. The NFLPA and NFL got involved at some point during the process.

This benching comes after Wilson was traded from the Seattle Seahawks to the Broncos in March 2022. He signed a lucrative five-year, $242.6 million contract extension with Denver, but the team has struggled in another underwhelming season. The drama surrounding Wilson's injury guarantee for 2025 and the March 2024 trigger date has been a major talking point. Wilson made it clear that he was not willing to restructure that part of the deal, emphasizing the physicality of the game and the importance of injury guarantees.

Despite the benching, Wilson expressed his desire to remain in Denver in the future. He stated that he came to the team to win and signed a seven-year deal with that goal in mind. Wilson is determined to give his all every time he steps on the field and be the best teammate and leader he can be. He has been actively participating in practice and supporting his replacement, Jarrett Stidham.

Meanwhile, Geno Smith, who replaced Wilson in Seattle after the trade, showed his support for his former teammate. Smith tweeted "FREE 3" on Wednesday night, referring to Wilson's jersey number. Smith and Wilson played together in Seattle from 2019 to 2021, with Smith serving as Wilson's backup. Smith has found success as the starting quarterback for the Seahawks, leading them to the playoffs last year and earning his first Pro Bowl honor.

The Broncos' decision to bench Wilson has raised questions about their future and the possibility of a messy offseason divorce. Head coach Sean Payton, in his first year with the team, emphasized the need for an offensive spark. It is widely expected that Wilson will be released by the Broncos in the offseason.

The Broncos, currently with a 7-8 record, are facing slim playoff chances. They need to win their remaining games and hope for the Chiefs to lose their last two games to have a chance at making the postseason. The team will face the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Wilson remains focused on the present. He understands the speculation and is grateful for the opportunity to play the game. Wilson's faith in God and his optimism for what lies ahead were evident in a short post he made on social media, where he wrote, "God's got me. Looking forward to what's next."

The Broncos' decision to bench Wilson has undoubtedly added more drama to an already turbulent season. The team's playoff drought, which has lasted for seven years, continues, and their future remains uncertain. As the regular season comes to a close, all eyes will be on the Broncos and their next moves.