Report: Russell Wilson spoke to Peyton Manning before trade

Russell Wilson did a lot of research on what his preferred destination would be before he was ultimately traded to the Denver Broncos. That research apparently included speaking to one legendary quarterback.

Wilson reached out to Peyton Manning before being traded to Denver to discuss what it was like playing for the Broncos, according to James Palmer of NFL Network. Wilson and Manning had multiple conversations about both the city and the organization.

As I just reported on @nflnetwork Russell Wilson did a lot of research on the #broncos before being traded to Denver. That included recently reaching out to Peyton Manning multiple times. Picking Manning’s brain on the city, the organization & being the QB for the Broncos

— James Palmer (@JamesPalmerTV) March 14, 2022

Whatever Manning said clearly worked, as Wilson ultimately accepted a trade to Denver. The former Seahawk apparently had other options, but fixated on the Broncos first and foremost.

Interestingly, Manning has at times been rumored to be eyeing an ownership stake in the Broncos. Maybe the two will be paired together more professionally in the future, but for now, it seems the Broncos owe Manning a tip of the cap for their new quarterback.

Photo: Oct 7, 2021; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson (3) stands on the sideline during the fourth quarter against the Los Angeles Rams at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports