Russell Wilson appears to be to blame for more than just on-field play

Russell Wilson’s posse is causing issues with the Denver Broncos coaching staff, reportedly.

The Denver Broncos have what can only be defined as an unmitigated disaster brewing within their organization. It’s impossible to predict the ripple effects their misguided decision to go all-in on Russell Wilson will create for years to come both in and out of Denver.

Wilson has taken a ton of blame this season, and rightfully so, for his on-field play. The Broncos, defensively sound, have failed to put points on the board. At 13.8 per game, they rank dead last in the NFL.

Not exactly what Denver expected when they signed Wilson to a massive extension (before even seeing him play a single down in Denver… Why?).

There is much, much more to be concerned about, though, and it goes beyond just what Wilson brought to the field of play.

Russell Wilson’s posse could be partly to blame for coaching issues for Denver Broncos

According to Luke Patterson at FanNation’s Broncos site, Russell Wilson’s personal quarterback coach is causing organizational issues for the Broncos.

Jake Heaps, the personal coach in question, is a former collegiate and NFL player who spent some time as an analyst on ESPN Radio before leaving that gig to take on the role of Wilson’s personal coach, according to Patterson.

Patterson’s article goes on to give some conjecture that one of the principal issues with the coaching staff in Denver is the lack of a hierarchy and the privilege Wilson has gotten in being able to bring his buddy along.

"“Wilson’s move to bring Heaps along and interject him into Dove Valley business directly disrespects the team aspect of professional football and all but spat in the face of Broncos’ coaching staff. Remember, Heaps cashes his paychecks issued by Wilson, not the Denver Broncos.”"

When you bring on a star as established as Wilson, you bring some baggage, too. And when you hand out as much money as the Broncos did (no, they can’t really get out of the contract), guaranteed, you give him some inherent privilege to do whatever he wants, including bringing along his preferred staff, even if their role is redundant at best and interference at worst for the team’s hired staff.

Him losing the trust of the locker room might force him to realize he needs to do things the team way, not the Russ way, though.

It’s easier to understand why Nathaniel Hackett has struggled tremendously in this opening year when he and his staff are having to navigate such tangled relationships.