The Pittsburgh Steelers made a wild move in the 2024 offseason to bring in the former Super Bowl champion and nine-time Pro Bowl quarterback Russell Wilson. The Steelers were lucky to sign Wilson to the veteran minimum, as the Denver Broncos were so eager to part ways with him that they were willing to pay millions just to get him off their roster.
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Steelers' Justin Fields watches Russell Wilson throw the ball.
Wilson's arrival was seen as a pivotal step toward helping the Steelers end their playoff drought, but fate dealt a tough hand when a calf injury sidelined him for the first six games of the season. During his absence, Justin Fields stepped in as the starting quarterback and led the team to a commendable 4-2 record, showcasing his ability to command the offense effectively.
Mike Tomlin made the bold decision to bench Fields in favor of Wilson in Week 7 against the New York Jets. This strategic move proved to be a game-changer, as the Steelers triumphed over the Jets with a resounding 37-15 victory on Sunday Night Football.
Wilson displayed flashes of his former brilliance, igniting hope among fans who have been yearning for a return to playoff contention. The performance not only reinvigorated the Steelers' offense but also reignited discussions about Wilson's role and longevity with the team, especially considering he is on a one-year deal at the age of 35.
With Wilson’s future hanging in the balance, many Steelers fans are left wondering about the organization’s long-term plans for the quarterback. Steelers insider Gerry Dulac recently revealed that the front office is keen on extending Wilson beyond the 2024 season.
"I will say it again," Dulac said. "I have been told Russ and the Steelers each intend to do a deal after the season. We'll see how that plays out."
Dulac has made it clear that both the Steelers and Wilson are eager to negotiate an extension after the season.
Jared Wickerham / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' Russell Wilson drops back to pass during a Sunday Night Football game against the New York Jets.
The Steelers have a longstanding policy of not negotiating contracts during the season, and this approach will remain unchanged for Wilson or any other player.
Steelers Have A Big Choice To Make At QB After The 2024 Season Ends
The quarterback situation for the Steelers is becoming intriguing. Fields represents a younger option with flashes of brilliance, but keeping both quarterbacks will be expensive. While the Steelers currently enjoy a favorable contract situation for their quarterbacks in 2024, that will change significantly once the season ends.
Fields has demonstrated his potential as a long-term solution. However, if the Steelers choose to extend Wilson, retaining Fields as a costly backup may not be practical. Dulac speculated that Fields could be on his way out after the 2024 season, given his performance may earn him a starting job elsewhere. Alternatively, the Steelers might pursue a long-term deal with Fields.
George Pickens the best contested catch WR in the NFL one hands this moon ball by Russell Wilson. pic.twitter.com/ytASkRpWB5
— Football Fanatics (@FFB_Fanatics) October 21, 2024
In his regular season debut against the Jets, Wilson performed well despite a rocky start that had the home crowd booing him. As the game progressed, the atmosphere shifted in his favor. Wilson finished with 264 passing yards, two touchdown passes, and a rushing touchdown, all while avoiding turnovers.
Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' Mike Tomlin and Russell Wilson on the sideline during a game against the New York Jets in 2024.
While both quarterbacks have shown promise, Wilson may be the best fit to lead the Steelers during this current window of prime talent. Although Fields' future in Pittsburgh isn't entirely closed off, all signs suggest that the Steelers are leaning toward keeping Wilson in the Steel City beyond 2024. Clarity on this situation will emerge as the 2024 season unfolds.
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