The Russell Wilson era in Denver ended on Monday, as the franchise officially spoke to him about his release. During his stint with the Denver Broncos, the team never made it to the playoffs both years. From trade capping a tension-filled Seahawks season to Wilson’s belief in the team’s imperfect offensive scheme, things truly went off the rail in Denver. But there’s more to the story. NFL Network Insider has now come up with a rather interesting insight.

After signing a five-year, $245 million deal, Wilson, on the way out, will now be able to get a $39 million guaranteed salary in 2024. On the other hand, the Orange team faces a record- $85 million dead cap. According to an NFL Network insider, Russell Wilson’s Broncos exit also creates a lucrative opportunity for the team’s Super Bowl ambitions as reflected in the $4 billion-worth Bet365’s numbers.

In the latest episode of DNVR Sports podcast, NFL Network insider James Palmer joined another NFL insider Zac Stevens, and Super Bowl 50 Champion Todd Davis to talk about the Broncos, Russell Wilson, Sean Payton, and the team’s current situation. The host asked Palmer and Davis, “Do you guys think the odds for the Broncos to win the Super Bowl this year got better or worse after releasing Russ?”

Palmer replied, “Better.” Zach Stevens resonated with the thought and came up with numbers. Stevens revealed that per $4 billion gambling giant Bet365, the odds increased “from plus 15,000 to plus 10,000” after Wilson’s exit from the team.

Stevens also came up with the reason for this increase in odds and Wilson’s departure, “I mean Vegas isn’t saying the Broncos are going to win the Super Bowl by any means right now. But right now the Broncos quarterbacks on the roster Jarrett Stidham and Ben DiNucci are their two options, so Vegas is clearly thinking that Sean Payton has something up his sleeve when it comes to the quarterback position.”

Many would agree that the Broncos’ releasing Wilson is a part of Payton’s plan of “building a team” and winning the Super Bowl, as he did while benching him in the final two games of the season, calling the decision “made in a search of “a spark” on offense.”

What’s next for the Denver Broncos and Russell Wilson?

While announcing Russell Wilson’s release, the Broncos coach Sean Payton and GM George Paton issued a statement. They thanked Wilson for his contribution and dedication to the team and community, wishing him the best in his future career. They further added, “As we move forward, we are focused on building the strongest team possible for the 2024 season and beyond. We are excited to improve this offseason and will have the flexibility to get better through the draft and free agency.”

Denver Broncos’ next aim is bold and doable. This is something NFL analyst Colin Cowherd too stated in his recent podcast, The former NFL player revealed that Payton wants to win the games, and Wilson wants to find a suitable landing spot for himself. So, they aren’t “in the blame game, they’re in the Turn the Page game.”

But at the same time, Wilson’s departure is very evident in his teammates, including Courtland Sutton and Jerry Jeudy. Sutton, for instance, showed his frustration by removing all references to the team from his social media just a day after Wilson’s exit. He also shared a rather cryptic post, “What’s next”, hinting at a departure.

Before living the big dream, Sean Payton needs to address the situation that is far from settled. A clear starting quarterback (for a second consecutive season) and Sutton’s negotiation table are just some of the things that form a part of the major shakeup.

Wilson, who is now a free agent, is “excited for what’s next,” as he will be available as a free agent from March 13 for new quarterback-eager teams such as Atlanta Falcons, Las Vegas Raiders, Pittsburgh Steelers, and New England Patriots.

Read more: Amidst ‘$80M’ Steelers Rumors, Russell Wilson’s Broncos Exit Inspires Shannon Sharpe’s Plea to NFL Players: “Do What’s in the Best Interest of You”