The New York Jets have traded quarterback Zach Wilson to the Denver Broncos. This move comes just days before the start of the 2024 NFL Draft. Here’s a breakdown of the trade and its implications.
The Broncos acquired Zach Wilson and a 2024 seventh-round pick (No. 256) from the Jets in exchange for a 2024 sixth-round pick (No. 203). The two teams will also split Wilson’s guaranteed training camp roster bonus.
Reports indicate that the Broncos had been in talks with the Jets about a Wilson trade for some time. While Wilson may not be a long-term solution for Denver, the team sees the trade as a low-risk move to potentially unlock his talent and potential.
The acquisition of Wilson does not necessarily take the Broncos out of the running for a quarterback in the first round of the draft. With quarterbacks like Jarrett Stidham and Ben DiNucci on the roster, Denver could still consider a rookie signal-caller in the first round.
In terms of financials, the Broncos and Jets will split Wilson’s cash earnings for 2024. Wilson’s cap charge in Denver will be $3.805 million, making Denver’s quarterback room one of the most cost-effective in the league.
Wilson’s departure from the Jets will result in roughly $7.5 million in dead money for the team. However, the Jets will save over $3.5 million in cap space by trading Wilson.
While Wilson may not be the Broncos’ long-term solution at quarterback, the team is taking a no-downside risk on the former No. 2 pick. This move allows Denver to be flexible with their draft strategy and potentially focus on other areas of need in the upcoming season.
