Jan 1, 2023; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson (3) throws a pass during the second half against the Kansas City Chiefs at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports

Broncos QB Russell Wilson starts 2023 resolution in solid performance against Chiefs

By Clark Dalton | Last updated 1/1/23

Despite a 27-24 loss to Kansas City on Sunday, Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson showed he's developing a 2023 resolution.

After being mocked throughout the season, sources from Wilson's camp told NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport that he's examining everything to avoid another 4-12 calamity, resulting in rookie head coach Nathaniel Hackett getting fired.

Wilson's performance against the Chiefs indicates the statement isn't a false promise. He went 26-of-38, threw one touchdown and rushed for an additional two, demonstrating that his arm strength and mobility remain.

We you, 3️⃣!

: CBS pic.twitter.com/5fkjDlRd78
— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) January 1, 2023

Hey-O, Albert O!@AOkwuegbunam | : CBS pic.twitter.com/sjlDVpvmar
— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) January 1, 2023

More importantly, he gave Denver a viable chance against a heated rival, who have defeated the Broncos in 15 consecutive games, which is why they traded two first-round draft picks for him this offseason.

offensive pass interference on Broncos Courtland Sutton wow pic.twitter.com/QaFUN1WXu7
— Ted Buddwell (@TedBuddy8) January 1, 2023

A questionable offensive pass interference penalty on Courtland Sutton—negating a 44-yard third down conversion—and a 14-point fourth-quarter rally prevented Wilson from pulling off the upset, but it didn't undermine his efforts against a 13-3 team.

His best games have come against the Chiefs. He's thrown four touchdowns and posted a 90.7 passer rating in two games against Kansas City.

Looking like the old Wilson against elite teams is of the utmost importance because it shows Denver believing he's fixable isn't unwarranted.

While he's a long way from the form of a nine-time Pro Bowler, Hackett's replacement can reactivate the tools that made him one of the most dynamic QBs in the league.

Perhaps there's the right head coaching candidate out there who will realize this and rejuvenate Wilson.

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