Sean Payton explains why Broncos are making QB change

Aug 11, 2023; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton looks on against the Arizona Cardinals during the first half at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

The Denver Broncos on Wednesday announced that they had made a huge decision to bench Russell Wilson in favor of Jarrett Stidham. Broncos head coach Sean Payton tried his best to explain why.

Payton spoke with the media and said that the Broncos made the quarterback change because they believe Stidham can provide a “spark” to the team’s offense. Payton insisted the move is being made to give the team its best chance of winning.

“We’re desperately trying to win,” Payton said. “Sure, in our game today there are economics and all those other things, but the No. 1 push behind this is to get a spark offensively.”

Payton described the situation as “difficult” and emphasized they believe they can win with Stidham.

“If I didn’t feel like he gave us a chance to win, we wouldn’t be making that move,” Payton said.

Sean Payton says QB switch about trying to win. Want a spark. pic.twitter.com/M44fO0bVP6

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Despite what Payton says, there will be plenty of people who believe the Broncos are benching Wilson for financial reasons. The team may have plans to cut Wilson after the season. They may decide to take a big financial hit in 2024 in order to be free of any financial obligations to the quarterback in 2025.

Denver is 7-8 following their disappointing Week 16 loss to the Patriots. The Broncos host the Chargers in Week 17 and visit the Raiders to close out the regular season.