The Pittsburgh Steelers organization is measured by winning Super Bowls. Every season, no matter the roster, the Steelers are expected to be a team competing for a chance at the championship, thanks to their storied history backed by six Super Bowl wins. However, in recent years, the Steelers have struggled to find success in the postseason, with their last playoff win coming in the 2016 season. This long playoff drought has fueled the need for change and a renewed focus on building a championship-caliber team.
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Steelers' Russell Wilson (3) and Pat Freiermuth (88) get ready to run out onto the field in Washington.
To address this, the Steelers made a bold move by acquiring Russell Wilson when the opportunity arose to bring him in for the veteran minimum. The decision to bring in the former Super Bowl-winning quarterback was seen as a potential game-changer for the franchise. Since joining the team, Wilson has managed to revive his career, and the excitement surrounding the Steelers' offense is starting to build. Fans are eager to see what the veteran QB can continue bring to a team with playoff aspirations once again.
Ahead of Week 14, former Steelers legendary Head Coach Bill Cowher sat down with Wilson to deliver a powerful challenge. Cowher, known for his fiery passion and leadership, reminded Wilson of the high expectations that come with being a Steeler. The message was clear: if Wilson is to truly make a difference in Pittsburgh, he must rise to the occasion and lead this team back into the postseason—and beyond. Cowher gave Wilson a message he won't forget anytime soon.
"Your leadership, your genuineness, your passion, your love for the game resonates in this building, resonates in this city," Cowher explained. "Go get number seven."
Cowher is a passionate individual with a deep love for Pittsburgh, and it's clear he's thrilled to get to witness Wilson's resurgence in the Steel City. Wilson has fully embraced the Steelers, and Cowher has been quick to commend him for his commitment to the team.
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Bill Cowher celebrates winning Super Bowl XL with Hines Ward.
In turn, Wilson has accepted Cowher's challenge with enthusiasm, driven by a strong desire to add another Super Bowl to his resume.
"Let’s go get number seven, baby," Wilson said. "Yes sir, it is a pleasure, Coach."
The Steelers entered this season with many pundits doubting both Wilson and the team as a whole. Many believed that Wilson, at this stage in his career, wouldn't be an upgrade for Pittsburgh. Combined with the team's lackluster offense in 2023, these doubts led critics to question the Steelers' potential. However, much to their surprise, Wilson has risen above the adversity and exceeded expectations.
While there is still plenty of work to be done for Wilson and the Steelers' offense, the reasons for optimism are undeniable. With a 10-3 record and sitting at the top of the AFC North, the Steelers have defied the predictions of many, who had them finishing last in the division this season. The turnaround has been remarkable, and the team's future looks brighter than ever.
Steelers' Russell Wilson Making History In Pittsburgh
Wilson's play so far has forced many to forget about his struggles with the Denver Broncos. If he can rise to the challenge set by Cowher and lead the Steelers to their seventh Super Bowl, his legacy will be solidified in ways that seemed unimaginable just a season ago.
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Steelers' Russell Wilson celebrates with wide receiver George Pickens during a 2024 regular season game.
Winning a playoff game for the Steelers would be a major step in cementing that legacy. However, it's no longer just about winning a playoff game in 2024—this Steelers team has shown they are a legitimate Super Bowl contender. Steeler Nation will be hoping that Wilson's success continues, even if George Pickens has to miss more time due to his hamstring injury.
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