The Pittsburgh Steelers have named their four team captains for the 2024 NFL season: Russell Wilson, TJ Watt, Cam Heyward, and Miles Killebrew. This choice isn’t surprising, as these players were expected to receive this honor.
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Steelers' Justin Fields watches Russell Wilson throw the ball.
Wilson, who joins the Steelers after two challenging seasons with the Denver Broncos, faces questions about his remaining potential. However, there is optimism that he can rejuvenate the Steelers' offense. The team has officially named Wilson as the starting quarterback, a decision that was widely anticipated. Additionally, the Steelers acquired Justin Fields in a trade this offseason, and he will serve as the backup for 2024. Fields may also be used in special plays throughout the season.
Because of Fields' potential to possibly steal the job from Wilson in the 2024 season, not everyone agrees with Mike Tomlin's decision to name Wilson as a captain. NFL analyst Emmanuel Acho expressed his concerns on The Facility show, criticizing Tomlin’s choice and questioning the wisdom behind it.
"I got a huge issue with it," Acho said. "Here's my issue with it. Russell Wilson, I believe, is one of the greatest men I have ever met in my life. We came into the National Football League together. Russell Wilson is probably one of the best leaders of men in society. My issue is this, don't name a captain you might bench."
When the Steelers acquired Fields, it naturally stirred up significant excitement in their quarterback room. Headlines quickly focused on a potential quarterback battle between Wilson and Fields. However, Tomlin remained clear and consistent in his stance that Wilson would be in pole position for the job. It seemed unlikely that Fields could beat out Wilson for the starting job.
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Steelers' Russell Wilson and Justin Fields run on the field before a game.
Fields did have a chance to make an impression when Wilson was sidelined with a sore calf at the start of training camp. During this period, Fields showcased his athleticism and brought a fresh, exciting energy to the offense. Despite this, the Steelers still view Wilson as their best option for immediate success.
If Wilson struggles, the team may turn to Fields. This uncertainty is part of why Acho has expressed concerns about Wilson being named a captain. Acho argues that if Wilson is designated as a captain, he should be guaranteed the starting role throughout the season.
Wilson arrives in Pittsburgh after enduring two challenging seasons with the Broncos. During that time, he managed only 11 wins, and the Broncos were so dissatisfied that they agreed to pay a significant portion of his 2024 salary just to part ways with him. This is a stark contrast to the $242 million contract they offered him just a few years earlier.
Wilson is determined to change the narrative in Pittsburgh and prove himself anew. There’s considerable pressure on him to perform, and if he struggles, fans are likely to call for Fields. This quarterback situation will be a key storyline throughout the season, with national media eagerly following the drama.
If Wilson does falter and Fields takes over, Acho’s concerns would gain some validity. However, the situation isn't as critical as Acho suggests. Wilson was named starter for a reason, and Tomlin values his leadership qualities. If he struggles and gets benched it's not that big of a deal.
Steelers' Mike Tomlin Holds Russell Wilson In High Regard
Wilson deserved to be named a captain. Naming Wilson a captain reflects Tomlin’s high regard for him and his belief in Wilson's ability to lead. Tomlin’s own leadership style, known for rallying and inspiring players, is mirrored in Wilson’s approach.
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Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin talks to Russell Wilson after a game.
It’s clear that Tomlin and the Steelers view Wilson very highly, and his captaincy underscores their confidence in him.
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