DENVER – Zach Wilson’s journey to revitalize his career is almost at its first milestone, as Denver Broncos coach Sean Payton announced that Wilson will be one of the three quarterbacks included on the roster following the cut to 53 players.
This announcement comes on the heels of Wilson’s pivotal role in leading Denver to a resounding 38-12 win over the Arizona Cardinals in the preseason finale held on Sunday.
Expressing his gratitude, Wilson remarked that he feels “grateful” for the trade that brought him to the Broncos, adding, “I’m loving it out here.” The final roster cuts must be completed leaguewide by 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday.
The Broncos acquired Wilson via a trade with the New York Jets shortly before the April draft, after the former No. 2 overall pick had experienced three challenging seasons with the Jets. During the game against the Cardinals, Wilson took most of the snaps as the starting quarterback, with rookie Bo Nix absent from uniform, and only played on the opening possession.
Completing 16 out of 25 passes for 251 yards, Wilson threw two touchdown passes and added 22 rushing yards along with another touchdown. Regarding his significant playing time on Sunday, Wilson expressed that he feels an increasing comfort within the Broncos’ offense.
“I can’t recall many games in my career where it felt like we were establishing a rhythm [like we did on Sunday],” he shared. “Even if you hit a snag with a three-and-out, you still feel that you can create something positive. It feels great to have that energy as an offense. When a bad play occurs, you look forward to rectifying it on the next one.”
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Throughout the offseason and the initial week of training camp, Wilson was initially part of a three-way competition for the starting quarterback role. However, from the second week onward, the battle for the starting position narrowed down to Nix and Stidham, as they divided the workload with the starters until Payton designated Nix as the starter last week.
Despite this, Wilson believes he has rediscovered important aspects of his game. Payton has consistently expressed that there is a valuable place for Wilson on the roster, citing his potential and “arm talent.” Following Sunday’s game, Payton confirmed that Nix, Stidham, and Wilson will all secure spots on the team’s roster after the upcoming cuts.
“We have enough financial flexibility to … I understand the query,” Payton stated Sunday when asked if all three quarterbacks could fit within the salary cap. “We feel confident with those three quarterbacks. I believe I have already indicated my expectation for all three of them to make the team.”
Commenting on Wilson’s performance against the Cardinals, Payton went on: “He made several impressive throws … His arm really stands out on downfield throws, and I noticed he was wise in not forcing plays. … [He] had ample time on the play clock to adjust plays as needed. He’s played well for the better part of the last two and a half weeks.”
Payton mentioned this past week that Wilson “was on a bit of a heater” during practices.
Since his arrival in Denver, Wilson has expressed his desire to refine the aspects of his game that had been problematic during his tenure with the Jets. In New York, he held a 12-21 record in 33 career starts, failed to complete at least 56% of his passes during two of his three seasons, and recorded 23 touchdown passes against 25 interceptions.
Regarding Sunday’s performance, regardless of it being a preseason game, Wilson stressed the significance of playing turnover-free football, noting that the Broncos’ offense avoided any false starts, delay of game, or procedural penalties.
“I believe I’ve played sufficiently to steer clear of those complications,” Wilson explained. “It’s all about the operation—getting the ball out quickly, playing quarterback as I should, and positioning our team optimally.”
Wilson shared that, holding the most career NFL starts among the Broncos’ quarterbacks, he is prepared to assist Nix during any challenging moments that may arise.
“We all wish to play, we all aim to be on the team,” Wilson noted. “We all strive for success, but we also understand each other’s perspectives, so we support one another. I want everyone to excel … If I can serve as a resource for [Nix] … I will do so.
“I was genuinely happy for him; it didn’t surprise many. … [But] I told him I’m excited for him. I truly believe they’re putting him in an ideal situation.”
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Zach Wilson’s Redemption Journey Begins: Solidifying His Spot on the Broncos Roster
Understanding Zach Wilson’s Background
Zach Wilson, the talented quarterback from BYU, first entered the NFL spotlight as the second overall pick in the 2021 draft. His transition from college football to the professional league was highly anticipated, but it has seen its share of ups and downs. Wilson’s early years with the New York Jets were marked by inconsistent performances, leading to criticism and doubts about his future. However, his recent trade to the Denver Broncos presents a fresh opportunity for redemption.
What Led to Wilson’s Move to the Broncos?
After two seasons plagued with struggles, the Jets decided to move forward without Wilson, trading him to the Broncos. Key factors contributing to this decision included:
- Performance Issues: Wilson’s inability to secure a starting position and his inconsistent stats played a crucial role.
- Team Dynamics: The Jets felt that a change was necessary to revitalize their roster.
- Broncos’ QB Situation: With uncertainty surrounding their quarterback position, the Broncos saw Wilson as a low-risk option with high upside.
The Broncos’ QB Landscape
The Broncos have been seeking stability at the quarterback position since the retirement of Peyton Manning. After seasons of struggles, they brought in Wilson with hopes of reigniting his career. The current quarterback landscape for the Broncos includes:
| Quarterback | Status | 2023 Stats |
|---|---|---|
| Russell Wilson | Starter | 3,200 Yards, 20 TDs |
| Zach Wilson | Backup | N/A |
| Jarrett Stidham | Third String | 1,000 Yards, 5 TDs |
Zach Wilson’s Training Regimen
Since joining the Broncos, Wilson has committed to a rigorous training program. His focus includes:
- Footwork Drills: Improving his mechanics to enhance throwing accuracy.
- Film Study: Analyzing past performances to identify areas for improvement.
- Strength Training: Building physical endurance to withstand the rigors of the season.
Wilson’s Mental Reset
Aside from physical training, Wilson is also working on his mental game. This includes:
- Mindfulness Techniques: Engaging in meditation and visualization to boost confidence.
- Coaching Mentorship: Seeking guidance from seasoned quarterbacks who have navigated similar challenges.
- Positive Affirmations: Rebuilding his mental resilience through daily affirmations.
Case Studies of NFL Quarterbacks Who Found Redemption
Many quarterbacks in the NFL have faced adversity and emerged stronger. Some notable examples include:
| Quarterback | Original Team | Current Team | Redemption Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ryan Tannehill | Miami Dolphins | Tennessee Titans | 2019 |
| Alex Smith | San Francisco 49ers | Washington Football Team | 2020 |
| Geno Smith | New York Jets | Seattle Seahawks | 2022 |
These players serve as inspirations for Wilson, showcasing that with hard work and determination, a quarterback can turn their career around.
Practical Tips for Zach Wilson to Succeed in Denver
To solidify his spot on the Broncos roster, Wilson should consider the following practical tips:
- Establish Rapport with Teammates: Building relationships with wide receivers can improve on-field chemistry.
- Engage with Coaches: Regularly seeking feedback from coaching staff will help him refine his skills.
- Focus on Fundamentals: Prioritizing basic skills such as passing accuracy and decision-making will serve as a foundation for improvement.
The Broncos’ Support System
The Broncos organization has made it clear that they are committed to Wilson’s development. Key components of this support system include:
- Experienced Coaching Staff: The Broncos have a knowledgeable team of coaches who specialize in quarterback development.
- Access to Resources: Wilson has access to the latest training equipment and facilities to enhance his training regimen.
- Dedicated Fanbase: The support of Broncos fans can significantly boost a player’s morale and confidence.
Fan Reactions and Expectations
The reaction from Broncos fans regarding Wilson’s arrival has been a mix of skepticism and hope. Many are eager to see if Wilson can replicate the success of quarterbacks who have turned their careers around. Social media platforms have been buzzing with opinions:
- Optimistic Fans: Many believe Wilson has the potential to thrive with the Broncos.
- Cautious Supporters: Some fans are awaiting proof of Wilson’s capabilities before fully backing him.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for Zach Wilson
As Zach Wilson embarks on this new chapter with the Denver Broncos, his focus on redemption is palpable. With the combination of a supportive organization, a strong training regimen, and a commitment to personal growth, Wilson’s journey is one to watch. The upcoming season will be critical in determining whether he can solidify his spot on the roster and reignite his NFL career.
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