The Denver Broncos are benching quarterback Russell Wilson in a move that could have major ramifications for both his future and theirs.

Although the move keeps open the team’s options next year and could ultimately save the Broncos $37 million, coach Sean Payton on Wednesday called the switch to journeyman Jarrett Stidham more of a football decision than a financial one.

“I understand all the speculation and everything that surrounds a move like that, and I can tell you we’re desperately trying to win,” Payton said. “Sure, in our game today there are economics and all those other things, but the No. 1 push behind this ... is to get a spark offensively.”

The Broncos (7-8) have a narrow path to the playoffs. They’d have to win out and Kansas City (9-5) would have to lose out for Denver to make the playoffs for the first time since the 2015 season.

Payton said the entire offensive operation, himself included, has been deficient and this move isn’t meant as an indictment of Wilson alone.

“I can’t replace the entire offensive line, I can’t bring in five new receivers,” Payton said, “and if it continues over a period of time, then there’ll be another guy here talking to you, as well.”

Payton and Wilson have always been a clash of styles and two weeks ago Payton berated his QB on the sideline while Wilson patiently listened without response.

Stidham will start Sunday when the Broncos host the Chargers and in all likelihood start at Las Vegas in the season finale, too.

Peppers and Gates headline 15-player finalists for Hall of Fame >> First-time candidates Julius Peppers and Antonio Gates joined nine returning finalists who advanced to the final stage of voting for the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s class of 2024.

Peppers and Gates were announced Wednesday as finalists in their first year of eligibility. They will be joined on the 15-player ballot by five-time finalist receivers Torry Holt and Reggie Wayne.

Seven other players returned as finalists with Patrick Willis, Andre Johnson, Dwight Freeney, Jared Allen, Willie Anderson, Darren Woodson and Devin Hester all getting back to this step.

Defensive backs Eric Allen and Rodney Harrison, running back Fred Taylor and offensive lineman Jahri Evans made it to this stage for the first time after previously being semifinalists.

More quarterback news >> Tommy DeVito is out as the Giants starting quarterback and will be replaced by veteran Tyrod Taylor. ... Mason Rudolph will get a second consecutive start for Pittsburgh if Kenny Pickett’s surgically repaired right ankle is not ready in time, coach Mike Tomlin said. ... C.J. Stroud returned to practice on a limited basis, but the star Texans rookie remains in the concussion protocol and his status for Sunday’s game is uncertain.