The Washington Commanders are heading into the offseason with a major question mark at the quarterback position. With Sam Howell struggling in his second year and a new coaching regime under Dan Quinn looking to reshape the franchise, Washington may explore veteran options to stabilize the offense. One name that has surfaced as a potential solution is former Super Bowl champion and $120 million quarterback Russell Wilson.
Wilson, who was recently released by the Denver Broncos after just two seasons, is now a free agent and looking for a fresh start. His tenure in Denver did not go as planned after signing a massive five-year, $242 million extension. The Broncos’ decision to part ways with him makes Wilson an intriguing option for quarterback-needy teams like Washington.
The Commanders are expected to move on from Howell, who regressed after showing promise early in the 2023 season. With the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, Washington could select a young quarterback such as Drake Maye or Jayden Daniels. However, inserting a rookie into a rebuilding team with a new coaching staff presents challenges. Bringing in a veteran like Wilson could provide stability and mentorship while allowing the team to develop a young quarterback without rushing him into action.
Wilson, 35, is not the same dynamic player who led the Seattle Seahawks to a Super Bowl victory in the 2013 season, but he remains a capable starter. In 2023, he threw for 3,070 yards, 26 touchdowns, and just eight interceptions, showing he can still be an effective quarterback. His experience and leadership could help the Commanders transition under Quinn, especially with a young and developing roster.
Additionally, Wilson’s contract situation makes him an attractive option. Since Denver is paying the majority of his salary, Washington could sign him to a team-friendly deal, allowing them to use their cap space on other key areas such as the offensive line, secondary, and receiving corps.
While Wilson has drawn interest from other teams, including the Pittsburgh Steelers and New England Patriots, Washington presents an appealing destination due to its need for quarterback stability. If the Commanders believe Wilson can still play at a high level and serve as a bridge to a future franchise quarterback, he could be a logical fit in the nation’s capital.
Ultimately, the Commanders must decide whether to invest in a veteran like Wilson or fully commit to a rookie quarterback. If they opt for experience, Wilson’s pedigree as a Super Bowl champion and his ability to manage games efficiently could make him the right solution for Washington in 2024.
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