The Pittsburgh Steelers have entered the fray as potential contenders vying for the services of former Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson, as revealed in Gerry Dulac's latest report in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette on Thursday. According to Dulac's findings, there's a palpable sense of mutual interest between the Steelers and Wilson, signaling a potential convergence of two once formidable forces in the NFL.
USA Today
Steelers HC shakes hands with Russell Wilson
Scheduled to meet before the onset of free agency next week, the Steelers and Wilson are poised to engage in discussions that could reshape the landscape of Steeler football. This strategic meeting underscores the meticulous planning and strategic foresight that both parties are investing in their pursuit of regaining excellence on the field.
The Pat McAfee Show
Pat McAfee on ESPN during his show
Pat McAfee, along with die-hard Steelers fan Tone Digz, offered their reactions to the report on The Pat McAfee Show on Thursday. McAfee articulated his belief that the city of Pittsburgh epitomizes the ideal destination for a player of Wilson's caliber.
“A bunch of, you know, I don’t want to say, sh** talking white trash Yinzers, but yeah. Pittsburgh would be a good city for Russell Wilson to have on his back cause of all the chirping that takes place about Russell Wilson. Yinzers will come out and be like ‘wait this might have happened in Denver. He’s winning games for us.’”
McAfee elaborated further, emphasizing that Steelers fans' support for Wilson would be contingent upon his ability to contribute to the team's success on the field, a sentiment that resonates with the expectations of any passionate fan base.
Additionally, McAfee expressed his belief that a coach of Mike Tomlin's caliber would provide invaluable mentorship and support to Wilson, enhancing his mental fortitude and overall performance.
"If Russell Wilson goes in and wins, oh yeah, that's the perfect city for him. Mike Tomlin probably [the] perfect coach for him, 'cause Mike Tomlin will also talk sh** for Russell Wilson."
Digz added to the conversation, highlighting Tomlin's reputation for treating players with respect and fostering their growth, contrasting it with the treatment Wilson received from his former coach, Sean Payton, during the 2023 season.
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Russell Wilson playing in a game as the Denver Broncos QB
Digz noted that Payton's handling of Wilson in Denver was less than favorable, as he often made Wilson the scapegoat for the team's challenges, rather than supporting and empowering him.
McAfee reiterated that support for Wilson from Steelers fans hinges on his ability to contribute to victories. However, he cautioned that should Wilson falter, the city's sentiment could swiftly change.
"Now Russell Wilson, I wanna let you know, the city of Pittsburgh is the right city to have your back with the way you operate," McAfee said. "If you win, they are the right city to have your back."
Steelers And Russell Wilson Are Two Former Respected Names Fighting To Regain That Respect
Since signing a five-year, $242 million contract, Wilson and the Broncos have encountered several challenges on the football field. Concurrently, the Steelers have faced their own struggles.
Just a few seasons ago, during Wilson's prime, the Steelers were perennial Super Bowl contenders. Now, at 35 years old, Wilson presents an opportunity to not only restore his status as a prominent figure in the NFL but also to rejuvenate the Steelers' prospects and return them to contention.
The Steelers find themselves in dire need of bolstering their quarterback position. Despite expressing faith in Kenny Pickett, his on-field performance has failed to meet expectations. As a young quarterback, Pickett stands to gain invaluable experience and mentorship from a seasoned veteran like Wilson, whose presence could both challenge and inspire him to reach new heights. While some Steelers fans may perceive this move as abandoning Pickett, it could instead serve as the catalyst needed to unlock his full potential.
Bringing Wilson into the fold not only provides immediate reinforcement but also cultivates a dynamic environment where both quarterbacks can thrive. Pickett stands to benefit from Wilson's guidance and experience, while Wilson himself could find serious rejuvenation in a new setting.
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