07 September 2023 , 18:19
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Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson has sent a defiant message to his critics ahead of the new NFL season.
Wilson is preparing for his second year with the Broncos following a trade from the Seattle Seahawks in 2022. However, the veteran QB endured a difficult first year in Denver, with the team finishing 5-12 and Wilson struggling in comparison to his typical high standards.
Since then, the Broncos have undergone major changes with a new head coach entering the building. Sean Payton arrived from the New Orleans Saints in January and has been getting the team ready to compete in Week 1 of the 2023 regular season.
As part of the trade with the Seahawks, the Broncos sent three players - Noah Fant, Drew Lock and Shelby Harris - as well as a host of future draft picks, before signing Wilson to a $245 million (£196 million) long-term contract. As a result, there was a great deal of expectation for Wilson to be a success in the Mile High City.
But Wilson recorded a career-low passing rating of 84.4 during the 2022 season - 27th in the league overall. And now, even though it’s his second year in Denver, and 12th in the NFL, there is arguably more pressure on the 34-year-old to succeed than ever.
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Despite this, Wilson says he is not letting himself be affected by the critics and the pressure that may be on his shoulders this season.
“I’m used to some of those who believe and some of those who doubt, and I think that when you’re playing high stakes and you dream to be the best you can possibly be every day, there’s always going to be people that question whether you can do it or not,’’ Wilson told the .
“And I think I’ve proven that throughout my career what I can do and I got to do it again.”
Wilson was also asked if he keeps any “receipts” on those he considers to have doubted or criticised him. This is in reference to comments made by Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders.
In response to the question, Wilson is quoted as having said: “I think you’ve got them in your back pocket sometimes.”
Denver begins the 2023 NFL regular season Sunday against AFC West rivals, the Las Vegas Raiders. Wilson will be the starting quarterback for the game, as he and Payton look to begin the year with a win as the bid to compete for a championship begins.