The Denver Broncos seem likely to cut Russell Wilson in 2024 (even the quarterback expects it), but coach Sean Payton insists no long-term decision has been made yet.

“[Regarding] the future, we haven’t had a sit-down,” Payton said Wednesday. “I’m sure we will. Greg [Penner] and I and George [Paton] speak frequently, but this is about now. This is about trying to get our eighth win, and we’ll go from there.”

The Broncos benched Wilson on Wednesday, handing the offense over to quarterback Jarrett Stidham for the final two games of the 2023 season.

It’s possible that Denver and Wilson could restructure his contract this offseason, but after failing to get the quarterback to change his contract this fall, the Broncos seem unlikely to get a reworked deal done in 2024. Wilson has all the leverage — he’ll get paid even if cut, so the QB has little reason to accept a reduced salary.

For now, Denver is going forward with Stidham to close out 2023. Wilson’s future will be decided after the season.

“We need a spark,” Payton said of making a QB change. “We need something right now. We’ll handle the long-term when we get there, but we’re not there. We’re trying to find a way to get this eighth win, and then if we’re able to do that, then obviously, we have another important game next weekend. That’s where we’re at right now.”

The Broncos will host the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 17 before wrapping up the season on the road against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 18. Denver is technically still alive in the playoff hunt, but not by much.

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Story originally appeared on Broncos Wire