In a recent development, the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) has informed the Denver Broncos that their threat to bench quarterback Russell Wilson over a contract dispute could result in legal consequences. The warning, first reported by The Athletic, stated that the Broncos' actions were illegal, violated the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), and potentially infringed upon New York law.

According to Wilson, he was approached by the team during their bye week in November and told that he would be benched for the rest of the season unless he agreed to modify the injury guarantee in his contract. The quarterback, who was eventually replaced by Jarrett Stidham as the team's starting quarterback this week, expressed his disappointment about the situation.

The letter sent on behalf of the NFLPA by a law firm emphasized that if the Broncos followed through on their threat, they would be violating the CBA, Wilson's Player Contract, and potentially facing legal action. The letter suggested that arbitration and/or litigation against the Broncos could be anticipated.

Despite the Broncos' initial threat, they did not bench Wilson immediately after the contract discussion. The veteran quarterback continued to start for the team in the following seven games, including a 26-23 loss to the New England Patriots on Christmas Eve that put Denver's playoff hopes in jeopardy.

This week, however, the Broncos made the decision to start Jarrett Stidham for the final two games. Coach Sean Payton clarified that the decision was made based on football reasons, citing a decline in Wilson's performance over a four-game stretch where the Broncos went 1-3.

Regarding Wilson's long-term future with the franchise, the Broncos have not made any official announcements. Wilson himself stated that he is uncertain about what lies ahead after the season but expressed his genuine hope to remain with the Broncos.

It is worth noting that if the Broncos choose to release Wilson during the offseason, they would face an enormous $85 million dead cap hit, which would set an NFL record for a single player.

As the situation surrounding Russell Wilson's contract dispute continues to unfold, it remains to be seen whether the NFLPA's warning will lead to any legal action against the Denver Broncos. The outcome of this dispute will have significant implications for both parties involved.