The Pittsburgh Steelers are facing unexpected news regarding their new starting quarterback, Russell Wilson. This offseason, the Steelers signed Wilson to a one-year deal at the veteran minimum. Although Wilson was recently named the team's starting quarterback, troubling news has emerged about a persistent calf injury he has been grappling with.
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Steelers' Russell Wilson and Justin Fields talk while they get warmed up for camp.
Wilson was limited in practice on Thursday and again on Friday. He didn't express much confidence about his availability for Week 1, raising speculation that Justin Fields might take over as the starter for the game against the Atlanta Falcons. Wilson has been dealing with this calf issue since the beginning of training camp.
There are numerous questions surrounding Wilson's health and his performance potential. With 12 seasons in the NFL, nine Pro Bowl appearances, and a Super Bowl victory with the Seattle Seahawks, Wilson has an impressive resume. Yet, there has been ongoing debate about his Hall of Fame credentials.
To shed light on Wilson's legacy, former Seahawks teammate Marshawn Lynch recently appeared on the Pacman Jones Show. Lynch shared his perspective on Wilson's greatness and the validity of his Hall of Fame case, adding valuable insights into the quarterback's remarkable career.
"Man, I don’t know man, that little motherf***** a magician man," Lynch said. "I have seen him turn sh** to sugar before man so I hope it’s not over for my boy man."
Hearing from Lynch about Wilson is intriguing, especially given past rumors that Lynch wasn’t thrilled about having Wilson as a teammate. Just a year ago, Lynch discussed his less-than-favorable experiences with Wilson on the Club Shay Shay show with Shannon Sharpe.
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Former Seahawks teammates Russell Wilson and Marshawn Lynch during the Super Bowl.
He recounted several stories that highlighted why their relationship was strained. Despite this, Lynch maintained respect for Wilson, acknowledging and praising the accomplishments and qualities he witnessed firsthand while they were teammates. Lynch continued to speak about Wilson's Hall of Fame chances.
"I think it’s going to take from what he do here on out. At that position man, it’s got to be more than just the numbers though. It’s gotta be what you bring to the organizations, how your teammates are fu***** with you. I mean as far as the numbers you just read off, he’s got a good body of work."
During the show, Lynch was presented with some of Wilson’s impressive career statistics. Over his 12-year career, Wilson has amassed 43,653 passing yards, completed 64.7% of his passes, thrown 334 touchdowns, and only 106 interceptions. His all-time record as a starter stands at 115-72-1.
Additionally, Wilson's mobility and running ability have contributed significantly to his overall production. While Lynch acknowledges the remarkable nature of Wilson's resume, he stops short of guaranteeing him a spot in the Hall of Fame.
"I think it’s just going to be what he do outside of the organization of the Seahawks to solidify whether he will get that HOF or not."
It's great to see Lynch praising Wilson. When Wilson infamously threw the interception at the goal line in the Super Bowl against the New England Patriots, Lynch was quick to laugh and blame him.
Although Lynch hasn't always spoken highly of Wilson, he now seems to recognize Wilson's potential Hall of Fame case. Despite their past differences, Lynch acknowledges the significant achievements they had together and believes Wilson has a legitimate chance at the Hall of Fame.
Steelers' Russell Wilson Has A Chance To Solidify His Hall Of Fame Resume In Pittsburgh
Lynch thinks Wilson’s future performances in the Steel City will be crucial in cementing his Hall of Fame status. Wilson's tenure with the Denver Broncos didn't meet many expectations, but his 2023 season featured 26 touchdowns and eight interceptions.
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Steelers' Russell Wilson throws the football during practice.
His struggles with the Broncos have led some to question his Hall of Fame prospects. Lynch believes that Wilson's success with the Steelers could ultimately determine whether he earns a gold jacket or not.
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