The 2022 NFL season marked the worst year of Russell Wilson’s career under head coach Nathaniel Hackett. With 16 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. He ranked 19th in touchdown passes and 10th in interceptions, he was ranked 13th in passing yards. Overall, statistically Russell Wilson was the 7th worst quarterback in the league with a season grade of 66.2.
It wasn’t all about stats either Russell Wilson was making mistakes and misreads he hadn’t made since his rookie year. He missed multiple wide-open receivers, lost his deep ball ability, and wasn’t moving around in the pocket like the Russell Wilson everyone knew. This left Wilson with a lot to prove entering the 2023 season.
After the season the Broncos moved on from Nathaniel Hackett and traded for Super Bowl Champion and offensive genius Sean Payton. Leaving him with one task, fix Russell Wilson.
The 2023 season didn’t get off to a hot start for Wilson and the Broncos. The team started 1-5 but this start wasn’t necessarily on Wilson. The Broncos had the 32nd-ranked defense in the league who allowed a 70-point game vs the Miami Dolphins. Meanwhile, Wilson and the offense were averaging 22 points per game, a four-point improvement from the year before.
Now 14 weeks into the season Wilson's unwavering commitment and resilience on and off the field have paid dividends in the games. So far Russell Wilson has 23 touchdowns which ranks the 5th best in the league, He has 8 interceptions which is tied for 16th and his overall grade is 79 a whole 13 points better than last year.
Not only is this an improvement through the air for Wilson but on the ground has A total of 63 carries resulting in 310 yards gained, punctuated by two touchdowns. Mind you there are still four games left.
Wilson’s standout performances illuminated the narrative. Notably, against the Minnesota Vikings, he displayed precision by completing 27 out of 35 attempts, boasting a stellar 77.143% completion rate and amassing 259 yards. The clash with the Buffalo Bills witnessed an even higher completion percentage at 82.759%, accompanied by 193 passing yards.
However, not every contest has been a viewing pleasure for Wilson. The Houston Texans' match saw Wilson grappling with adversity, tossing 3 interceptions. Including one that sealed the defeat.
2023 stands as a crucible of growth and learning for Russell Wilson with help from Sean Payton. Is he back? not quite, can you win games with him? Absolutely, Can you win games because of him? I would say no. Regardless the turnaround Wilson has had this season serves as a testament to his character dedication and tireless work ethic. As fans, we should appreciate his character now and question his future later.
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