The Denver Broncos finally have a franchise quarterback again, and he’s helping them attract other key players.
Wilson’s presence attracts free agents the same way Peyton Manning did — Denver’s free agent signings during the Manning era included DeMarcus Ware, Aqib Talib, Emmanuel Sanders and T.J. Ward — but Wilson is also serving as an active recruiter.
“Russell Wilson was probably — if not the top reason, one of the top reasons why I was able to get out here,” edge defender Randy Gregory said at his introductory press conference on Friday. “Just his ability to reach out and stay relentless …. It’s big for me because my biggest thing is feeling wanted and having that support …. he hit me up a lot.”
New Broncos defensive lineman DJ Jones also said Wilson played a big part in his decision to sign with Denver.
“Russell is very — he texts a lot with me, and I’ll texted him and said, ‘Maybe give Randy a call.’ He’s very helpful there,” general manager George Paton said Friday. “He’s all in. He’s a very good recruiter, I’ve learned.
“We’re still trying to get to know each other, but I know he recruited Randy, DJ and some of the other guys. He’s willing to do that which is very helpful.”
Paton appreciates the impact Wilson can have on the team’s ability to improve the roster.
“It’s beneficial when I can text a franchise quarterback and that night, he calls a guy eight times,” the GM said. “That’s pretty special, especially when it’s someone like Russell Wilson …. It’s pretty cool.”
The Broncos might not be quite done with free agency moves just yet, so the Wilson recruiting will presumably continue in the coming days.
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