Russell Wilson is a master of keeping plays alive, and he’s one of the NFL’s best when it comes to escaping trouble.
Wilson just arrived in Denver this offseason, so most of the Broncos’ players weren’t used to seeing the quarterback’s mobility firsthand. Defensive lineman D.J. Jones, who played against Wilson twice a year while with the 49ers, wasn’t surprised to see it.
“He did something in practice the other day, and everyone was like, ‘That isn’t real.’ Yes, it is,” Jones said last week. “That’s what he does. He makes time and he gives the offense time. He’s going to make a beautiful throw, and it’ll probably be a touchdown.”
Wilson’s ability to extend plays is frustrating for defenses and exciting for Denver’s offense. If a receiver isn’t open initially, Wilson’s ability to buy time prompts improvisation, sometimes leading to big plays.
“For us, it’s just more opportunities to go make a play,” Courtland Sutton said last week. “The defense — they have that initial four seconds of guarding, plus however long the scramble lasts. ‘Russ’ can extend the play for quite some time.
“I’m sure that you all have seen that, and for us as receivers, tight ends, the running backs — I’m pretty sure even the o-line likes it — it’s just being able to extend the play and have another opportunity to get those yards.”
Wilson doesn’t run around aimlessly — and he’s an excellent pocket passer — but when things break down, the QB can make things happen with his legs. That’s part of what makes him one of the best in the NFL.
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