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Broncos’ QB Russell Wilson can win Comeback Player of the Year

By Lou Scataglia

NFL Picks; Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson (3) watches as the closing seconds tick away during the second half against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports
NFL Picks; Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson (3) watches as the closing seconds tick away during the second half against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports /
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Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson had the worst year of his career in 2022 but can win Comeback Player of the Year in 2023.  I think this is a smart bet to make, honestly.

In 2022, Wilson looked unrecognizable on the field.  He was simply terrible in every sense of the word.  The Broncos’ not being able to establish an offensive identity, along with poor coaching and devastating injuries produced a poor on-field product.

Wilson seemed to get most of the blame, at least from the national media, which is understandable if you’re far removed from the true issues of the Broncos.  Anyway, the team brought in Sean Payton as their next head coach, replacing Nathaniel Hackett, who was fired before his first season ended, which only a few other men have experienced in the history of the NFL.

Russell Wilson can win Comeback Player of the Year for a couple of reasons.

Broncos’ QB Russell Wilson can win Comeback Player of the Year

Broncos’ offseason moves indicate a clear offensive identity

The Broncos signed two excellent run-blocking offensive linemen in Mike McGlinchey and Ben Powers.  They also signed a stellar blocking tight end in Chris Manhertz.  Samaje Perine came over from the Cincinnati Bengals.  He’s a tough runner who will be able to cover until Javonte Williams returns.

Also, what worked so well for Russell Wilson in Seattle?  Well, a strong running game allowed the Seahawks to run their play-action, which is where Wilson thrived.  It was so efficient for a decade playing in this type of run-first offense.

The Broncos’ offseason moves have made it clear that they plan on running the ball, so this should play to Wilson’s strengths.

Sean Payton’s history with passing offenses and scoring offenses

Sean Payton is one of the best offensive coaches in the modern-day NFL.  Take a look at these statistics from his tenure with the Saints:

  • In nine of his 15 years as a head coach, Payton’s offenses ranked in the top five
  • The only year his scoring offenses ranked worse than 12th was in 2021 while Jameis Winston was the starter
  • In 11 of his 15 seasons as a head coach, Payton’s offenses ranked in the top five in passing yards

So, it’s about guaranteed that the Broncos will feature a top-12 scoring offense.  There’s also a better than 50% chance, according to Payton’s tenure, that the Broncos could have a top-five scoring offense.

Not only that, but if the Broncos are able to establish the run effectively, imagine how much more successful the passing game will be.

Russell Wilson is being put in a marvelous situation with Sean Payton to win the Comeback Player of the Year Award.  History indicates that the Broncos will feature one of the NFL’s best offenses.

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