Four days shy of the two-year mark since the initial announcement of quarterback Russell Wilson’s move from the Seahawks to the Broncos, Denver decided to end the experiment. The question arises: Was it possibly the worst trade ever executed?
Denver paid a hefty price to acquire Wilson, surrendering two first-round picks, two second-round picks, a fifth-round pick, tight end Noah Fant, quarterback Drew Lock, and defensive end Shelby Harris.
In return, they received a 2022 fourth-round pick, which resulted in defensive end Eyioma Uwazurike, currently serving a suspension for violating the NFL gambling policy.
Seattle used the two first-round selections to acquire tackle Charles Cross and cornerback Devon Witherspoon.
The deal soured further when the Broncos opted to extend Wilson’s contract prematurely. Despite having two years remaining on his existing deal, they offered him a new contract with $124 million fully guaranteed at signing.
However, another trade struck in the same month could potentially surpass the Wilson deal in terms of misfortune.
The Browns relinquished three first-round picks, a 2022 fourth-round pick, a 2023 third-round pick, a 2024 fourth-rounder for Deshaun Watson, and a 2024 fifth-round selection. Additionally, Watson received a five-year, $230 million contract, fully guaranteed.
While the Broncos were able to extricate themselves from Wilson’s contract after two disappointing seasons, the Browns may rue the inability to undo Watson’s deal. Unless Watson delivers a performance reminiscent of his early career in 2024, the Watson trade might eclipse the Wilson trade’s failure, primarily due to the absence of an exit strategy.
Nevertheless, both transactions were undeniably regrettable, depleting the franchises of numerous promising young players in exchange for high-stakes maneuvers that failed to materialize.
Despite Denver’s misstep, they deserve commendation for acknowledging their error, swiftly addressing it, and moving forward.
