Where will Russell Wilson land now that the Broncos have released him?

It was not necessarily a shock to see the Denver Broncos release Russell Wilson, even if it does mean that they will take an NFL-record $85 million salary cap hit on the move.

In a joint statement by General Manager George Paton and coach Sean Payton, the team said, “We spoke with Russell Wilson today to inform him of his release after the start of the league year. On behalf of the Broncos, we thank Russell for his contributions and dedication to our team and community while wishing him the best as he continues his career.”

Two years after a blockbuster move to Denver, the former Super Bowl winner never established himself as the best version of Russell Wilson in the NFL.

Wilson will have a few options as to where to ply his trade next, with more than one NFL team in desperate need of a quarterback.

The New England Patriots could be in the running if it were not for that hefty price tag that Wilson carries. They are still without a firm grasp on the quarterback spot. There is the chance that they could draft high and get a cheaper alternative from the free agency market to cover the next season or two.

The Pittsburgh Steelers might be the likeliest suitor for Wilson, with Kenny Pickett barely able to limp this offense along. They are currently feeling out the free agency market and exploring other options, but with Wilson now out there for the taking, they might find the temptation too great to bear.

The Las Vegas Raiders have not yet found their feet with the quarterback situation either and they might take Wilson as a short term stop-gap while trading up in the draft to get some young talent.

Minnesota could be in the running if Kirk Cousins’ achilles injury rumbles on. They have some great receiving weapons and just need a solid veteran to deliver the ball to their hands. If there is a delay in Cousins’ return, they could shop around and Wilson would be their number one pick.

Russell Wilson is sanguine about it, saying that he is ready to work hard and help a team win. “Tough times don’t last, but tough people do. God’s got me. I am excited for what’s next.” So are we, Russell. So are we.