NFL GM: Broncos' Trade for Russell Wilson a 'Reach'; Calls QB 'Below-Average Leader'

The Denver Broncos made a major splash Tuesday by acquiring star quarterback Russell Wilson from the Seattle Seahawks, but not everyone believes he will be a difference-maker.

"I think it's a reach by Denver for a player past his prime who is a below-average leader," one general manager told The Athletic's Jeff Howe.

Denver went all in to acquire Wilson, sending two first-round picks, two second-round picks, a fifth-round pick, quarterback Drew Lock, tight end Noah Fant and defensive lineman Shelby Harris to Seattle, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. Many view Wilson as the Broncos' best quarterback since Peyton Manning retired in 2015.

But Wilson threw for a career-low 3,113 yards last season with 25 touchdowns and six interceptions in 14 games. The 10-year veteran was forced to miss time for the first time in his career after suffering a broken finger that required surgery.

The Broncos have a slew of offensive weapons in receivers Jerry Jeudy, Courtland Sutton and Tim Patrick and running back Javonte Williams. The team also has a strong defense that allowed the third-fewest points in the NFL last season.

But Denver will be integrating a new head coach in former Green Bay Packers offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett. Playing in the competitive AFC West also has some people skeptical about the effectiveness of the trade.

"Denver gave up a lot," one head coach told Howe. "[But they’re] still the third-best in the division."

Wilson will be looking to lead the Broncos to their first playoff appearance since the 2015 season when they won Super Bowl 50.