by Ben Perks
Russell Wilson’s move to the Denver Broncos has slashed his new team’s NFL Super Bowl odds from +2200 to +1400. The Seahawks decided to trade their star player for stud tight end Noah Fant, QB Drew Lock, defensive lineman Shelby Harris, and draft picks, including two first-rounders. When officially completed, the trade will be one of the biggest in the history of the NFL.
Denver Broncos Now Top Contenders
Bringing in a new quarterback was a top priority for the Broncos, as most of their on-field problems stemmed from poor QB play. Teddy Bridgewater and Lock combined to throw only 20 touchdowns, resulting in Denver finishing the regular season 23rd in points and 19th in passing yards per game.
Wilson will link up with new head coach Nathanial Hackett to resurrect the Broncos’ offense. Because Hackett played a significant part in Green Bay’s attacking success over the past few years, he will likely make Denver a more aggressive and pass-friendly outfit. After spending last season playing in Seattle’s outdated and toothless offense, Wilson should become a major threat with this more dynamic system.
As Denver is now a top-three contender to win the AFC at +700 and +240 to win the AFC North, it’s safe to say that Vegas NFL oddsmakers agree with this assumption. However, NFL betting sites still have Kansas City and the Buffalo Bills ahead of them to win the AFC.
Wilson for MVP?
Unsurprisingly, sportsbooks think Wilson has a far better chance of winning MVP with the Broncos than with the Seahawks. The 33-year-old saw his MVP price tag cut from +3000 to +1500 following the trade to put him in the top six.
Although former teammates Metcalf and Lockett are arguably a better wide receiver duo than Jerry Jeudy and Courtland Sutton, Wilson was unlikely to win MVP with the Seahawks because of their conservative approach. However, Hackett’s game plan and new teammates Jeudy, Sutton, KJ Hamler, and Javonte Williams will provide a better springboard for Wilson to claim the Most Valuable Player honors next season.
Ben is a sports journalist & part-time trader with a passion for finding +EV bets. Ben lives in Madrid, Spain where he enjoys the live poker scene, and sunshine where he covers UFC, MLB, NHL, NBA, as well as tennis betting.
