Broncos WR shares message for Russell Wilson critics

Last season, Wilson logged career lows in passing TDs (16), completion percentage (60.5 percent) and QBR (38.7). This season, he has completed 67.9 percent of his passes for 1,806 yards, 18 TDs, four interceptions, an above-average 52.5 QBR and is tied for the league lead in fourth-quarter comebacks (three).

Attribute the QB's improved play to new Denver head coach Sean Payton, who's emphasized Wilson's strengths and helped him regain his swagger.

"This looks like the guy we saw all those years in Seattle," Hall of Fame QB and ESPN analyst Troy Aikman said Monday on "SportsCenter with Scott Van Pelt." "And after last year, I think his confidence had to be rebuilt a little bit, and it was starting to come back. I think Sean Payton has a lot to do with that."

This is a critical season for the 34-year-old. Wilson is entering the second year of a seven-year, $245M contract, which includes a fully guaranteed salary ($37M) in 2025. Denver could reportedly move on and draft a new QB if he doesn't help the organization turn around.

However, he's stepping up and keeping the Broncos' playoff hopes alive. The New York Times simulator notes they have a 10 percent chance to make the postseason.

If Wilson keeps improving and leads Denver on an improbable run, he will show he's still a franchise cornerstone and end the ridicule.