Broncos OC opens up about Russell Wilson amid uncertainty

New Denver Broncos offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi sounds confident quarterback Russell Wilson will respond positively following a rough first season with the organization. 

"I think a lot of things," Lombardi said about Wilson bouncing back, per Jon Heath of Broncos Wire/USA Today. "Injuries are always a big deal. As you look at what happened last year, a lot of it was injuries. So, it’s about staying healthy." 

Specifically, Wilson dealt with a lingering hamstring issue last fall and was knocked out of the Week 14 game against the Kansas City Chiefs with a concussion. It was learned in March that he had arthroscopic surgery on his right knee following a campaign that included the 34-year-old allegedly losing members of the locker room due to his poor play coupled with his unique personality. 

According to ESPN stats, Wilson ended the regular season ranked 27th out of 31 eligible signal-callers with a 36.7 adjusted QBR and 31st overall with a 60.5% completion percentage. In 15 games, he threw 16 touchdown passes and 11 interceptions. 

Since March, multiple in-the-know individuals have suggested that new Denver head coach Sean Payton won't hesitate to sit Wilson in favor of backup Jarrett Stidham even though Stidham is, at best, an unproven commodity. Lombardi understandably revealed nothing about Payton's mindset regarding potentially benching Wilson and instead praised the one-time Super Bowl champion's commitment to putting the 2022 season behind him. 

"He shows up every day ready to work," Lombardi added about Wilson. "He’s the same guy every day — same attitude, and he’s really fun to work with. I think the answer for him is what the answer is for everyone. Work hard every day, get your fundamentals down and understand what you’re trying to accomplish. So far, it’s been really good." 

The Payton-Wilson relationship should generate one of the league's most fascinating storylines across at least the first half of the 2023 season, especially if the Broncos possess a losing record heading into their Week 9 bye. For now, the two have little choice but to enjoy a honeymoon period that theoretically could end during training camp or the preseason if Wilson looks past his prime during summer practices.