Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson. Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

Tony Gonzalez says Russell Wilson is playing 'pathetic football' after disappointing 'TNF' performance

By Dan Treacy | Last updated 10/7/22

Hall of Fame tight end Tony Gonzalez had harsh criticism for Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson on the "Thursday Night Football" postgame show, labeling Wilson's performance "pathetic."

"That was pathetic. That's pathetic football out there," Gonzalez said about Wilson's performance in particular after the Broncos' 12-9 loss to the Colts.

The Broncos were held without a touchdown and again struggled in the red zone as they have all year. Wilson finished 21-of-39 for 274 yards and two interceptions.

When Denver had a chance to ice the game with a touchdown late in the fourth quarter, Wilson threw an interception to Stephon Gilmore in the end zone. In overtime, after coach Nathaniel Hackett put the ball in Wilson's hands on fourth down rather than play for the tie, Wilson ignored a wide-open K.J. Hamler and threw a pass that was broken up by Gilmore.

The Broncos had a man open on the 4th and 1 play at the end of the game, but Russ didn't see him. pic.twitter.com/8N0CXfXFkq
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) October 7, 2022

And the @Colts walk away with the W in OT. #INDvsDEN on Prime Video
Also available on NFL+ https://t.co/qcjXnKGOp7 pic.twitter.com/rApHGVBy70
— NFL (@NFL) October 7, 2022

"He better get up there and take responsibility," Gonzalez said, adding that Hackett can't be blamed for his struggles anymore.

The Broncos have scored under 17 points in four of their five games this season. Wilson, who has 17 games with at least four touchdown passes in his career, has only four touchdowns through five games.

We will see the Broncos in prime time again next week, when they face the Chargers on "Monday Night Football."

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