On the brink of a contentious separation from the Denver Broncos, Russell Wilson is poised to bring significant value to his next team, with the Minnesota Vikings emerging as a potential destination.
As per Spotrac, it is anticipated that the Broncos will release Wilson ahead of the free agency deadline on March 13, activating offset language in his contract. This provision would decrease the $39 million in guarantees owed to Wilson upon his release by the amount he earns from a new team in 2024. Denver’s decision to part ways with Wilson positions his next team to benefit from a considerable discount, likely at or near the veteran minimum of $1.21 million for the upcoming season.
This potential outcome works favorably for the Vikings, who face a substantial $28.50 million obligation to Kirk Cousins, whether he remains on the roster or not in 2024.
In a strategic move, the Vikings could capitalize on Wilson’s potential availability, replacing Cousins with the seasoned quarterback. Cousins, owed prorated bonuses on void years, faces a looming cap sheet impact if not extended before the contract expiration on March 13.
While the prospect of paying Cousins and securing a replacement bridge quarterback might typically raise concerns, the financial implications make Wilson an attractive option for the Vikings in 2024. Acquiring Wilson, potentially at the veteran minimum of $1.21 million, could serve as an optimal scenario, allowing the Vikings to draft a future quarterback in the upcoming April draft, according to Pioneer Press columnist Charley Walters.
Walters argues that, from a financial perspective, the Vikings could consider Wilson as a cost-effective bridge quarterback, especially if they select a quarterback with their No. 11 pick. The alternative, he notes, involves a substantial contract for Cousins, potentially reaching $45 million per year in free agency. Walters simplifies the choice: “The Vikings can either pay Cousins $45 million next season or Wilson $1.2 million.”
While the financial dynamics aren’t entirely straightforward, as it would cost the Vikings approximately $34 million to handle Cousins’ dead cap hit along with Wilson, Jaren Hall, and a first-round rookie quarterback, this approach presents a manageable cap hit for the quarterback position in 2024. Moreover, it positions the Vikings to be financially flexible for a significant free agency in 2025, addressing any roster gaps left by the new regime’s third draft class.
