Many theories have been made about how a certain relationship is managed behind closed doors at the Denver Broncos organization.
Russell Wilson, the quarterback, and head coach Sean Payton have that bond.
After Wilson had the worst season of his career in 2022, Payton complimented Wilson in the offseason and even detailed how he would return to playing at a great level.
Payton was seen ranting at Wilson on the sidelines during Denver’s Week 15 loss to the Detroit Lions, but we still don’t know why.
I personally wouldn’t have taken that disrespect. Russell Wilson should’ve swung at Sean Payton honestly #BroncosCountry pic.twitter.com/tEl7xVHfDO
— Ernie The Cowboys Fan (@es3_09) December 17, 2023
Colin Cowherd stated, “Sean [Payton] has blown up with Russell [Wilson] at the podium, on the sidelines,” on December 18 during the Colin Cowherd Podcast. It doesn’t seem to work the way Russell and Sean look to me.
Cowherd went on, “I don’t think Sean will ever come around. I believe he’s given it his all, but I also believe he’s a challenging player because Sean believes he’s getting a “B” player in terms of both athleticism and passing ability.
John Middlekauff joined Cowherd on the same episode and shared his opinions on whether the partnership will endure.
“I would suppose that he really wants to yell at him all the time. Let’s be honest: Payton compares everything to Drew Brees when he enters a new relationship and realizes that his old one was the finest one he has ever had. Russell Wilson won’t be on the club (next year), if I were a bettors. “If he [Payton] wants him gone, he will be gone,” Middlekauff continued.
It’s also important to remember that Wilson’s Broncos have won six of their past eight games and are setting themselves up to perhaps finish in the division or as an AFC Wild Card in the playoffs.
Russell Wilson’s interaction with Sean Payton was minimized.
Payton was questioned about the situation involving Wilson and himself during the Lions game.
“Only the call—the offensive offsides that resulted in a touchdown being brought back—bothered me. Nothing to do with you is what Russell and I discuss.
When questioned about the circumstances on the sidelines following the game, Wilson sidestepped the topic.
More than anything, Wilson stated, “we were disappointed we didn’t score on that drive.” The disappointing aspect was that, and we felt a little irritated about it.
“That’s our focus, and we all want to score there,” Wilson remarked. “We are looking for a passionate coach.”
When Payton addressed the local media two days following the game, questions concerning the event were again raised.
Nothing new to report, according to Payton. “It definitely has to do with the intensity of the game and the heat of the moment.” However, there is nothing else to say.
Additionally, Payton made a point of mentioning how much of a “great relationship” he has with Wilson.
Sean Payton Has Helped Russell Wilson Turn Things Around
Although there are rumors that Payton doesn’t want Wilson to play beyond this season, the statistics may indicate otherwise.
Under head coach Nathanial Hackett, Wilson’s 2022 campaign was the weakest of his career.
Wilson’s career low of 16 touchdowns to a career second-worst of 11 interceptions was passed up by him. In addition, the quarterback for Denver had the lowest completion percentage (60.5%) and quarterback rating (only 84.4) of his career.
The Denver offense had trouble finding the end zone early in this season, something they have struggled with ever since Peyton Manning started shattering records.
Wilson led the Broncos to five straight victories after they had a 1-5 start to the season, propelling them back into the postseason picture.
Wilson had an 8 touchdown to 0 interceptions ratio during on the winning streak, but only averaging 178.8 passing yards per week.
Wilson has the seventh-best quarterback rating (97.5) in the NFL and the fifth-most passing touchdowns (24) in the regular season. Wilson’s completion rate of 66.3% places him among the top 10 players.
It’s also important to remember that on December 12, Payton stated that his squad wants to win the division, not merely a Wild Card spot.
