Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson was cleared from the NFL’s concussion protocol last week, but the team decided to rest him in Week 15 to be cautious.
After sitting out against the Arizona Cardinals, Wilson says he feels great this week going into a Christmas Day showdown with the Los Angeles Rams.
“I feel great,” Wilson said Wednesday. “[I’m] super aware. The medical team here did a great job. To be able to heal quickly and just to be able to get back on the field and be able to practice Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. I was ready to roll. To give me an extra week and let those guys get in there — Brett [Rypien] did a great job stepping up and stepping in. I’m ready to rock and roll.”
Before sitting out last week, Wilson missed one game earlier this season with a hamstring injury. He also played through a shoulder injury earlier this year. The quarterback was asked Wednesday if he’s worried about mounting injuries if he continues using his legs to make plays.
“I don’t ever worry about that,” Wilson said “I’ve played 200 or something games. I’m not sure exactly the number in the NFL is. I have played a lot of pro baseball games, a lot of college baseball, and a lot of college football. I’ve made it through a lot. I’ve been blessed. A lot of 24/7 treatment, pretty much and having great people around you. It’s a lifestyle. You know this game is a physical game. I didn’t sign up for — and I’ve said this before — but I didn’t sign up for tennis. I signed up to play a physical game.
“You know you’re going to get hit; you know you’re going to battle. I’m not afraid to get in there and mix it up a little bit if I have to. I’ve been very blessed. I think baseball has helped me a lot to be able to get away, slide, move and do all those things. Just that experience [has helped]. I’m excited. I’m excited about this game right here. This is the one that matters the most.”
Wilson has completed 60.4% of his passes for 2,805 yards with 11 touchdowns against six interceptions in 12 games this season. He has also rushed 41 times for 215 yards and one score on the ground. The 34-year-old quarterback has been banged up at various time this season, but he does not seem to be concerned about his long-term health.
