Russell Wilson: A New Chapter Begins in Pittsburgh
In a surprising turn of events, Russell Wilson is set to start the upcoming NFL season as the quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Entering his 13th NFL season, Wilson’s move marks a significant new chapter for both him and the storied franchise.
Wilson is no stranger to the physical demands of the game, having been sacked an average of 43.9 times per year. Over the course of his career, he has accumulated a staggering total of 527 sacks. With Tom Brady holding the official record at 565 sacks, and Fran Tarkenton’s unofficial record standing at 570, Wilson is quickly approaching these historic milestones. If current projections hold, he will surpass both, reaching approximately 570.9 sacks by the end of the 2024 season.
As one among a select few quarterbacks with such high sack numbers, Wilson joins the ranks of Tom Brady (565), Ben Roethlisberger (554), and Aaron Rodgers (531). This feat underscores the durability and tenacity inherent in Wilson’s playing style, attributes that the Steelers will rely heavily upon as they aim to fortify their offense.
Wilson’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges, having suffered defeats at the hands of 29 different NFL teams. This season, the Steelers’ schedule includes critical matchups that could see Wilson join an even more exclusive group. If he loses to both the Cleveland Browns and the Philadelphia Eagles, he will have losses to 31 different teams – a distinction achieved by few. The Browns are slated for Week 12 and Week 14, while the Eagles will face the Steelers in Week 15.
Currently, ten quarterbacks have losses to 30 different teams. Among active players, Derek Carr has this distinction, having only avoided defeats to the Raiders and Panthers. The Saints, Carr’s team, confront the Raiders in Week 1 and the Panthers in Week 9, presenting him with the potential to expand his list of defeated foes. Joe Flacco, now backing up with the Colts, has also lost to 30 different teams but remains undefeated against the Lions, whom the Colts will meet in Week 12.
For Russell Wilson, the upcoming season with the Steelers represents a significant professional pivot. "I never had it to keep me going," Wilson remarked when asked if doubt drives him. "I've never been -- I don't know why --- I've just never been worried about what other people think."
Wilson’s outlook remains centered on his faith and personal convictions. "I think ultimately I focus on, as I mentioned to you guys -- obviously my faith means everything to me. God chose me for this, and He chose me to play this game," he elaborates. "I'm one of 32 men in the world that get to do what I do, get to play this game every day."
As Wilson prepares to take the reins for the Steelers, anticipation builds for Week 1 against the Falcons. The potential for a quarterback shuffle looms, should Wilson falter, with Justin Fields waiting in the wings. However, Wilson’s experience and resilience suggest he is ready to embrace the challenges ahead.
This season will not only test Wilson’s mettle but also add to his rich tapestry of NFL experiences. With records in sight and a new team to lead, Wilson’s 13th season promises to be one of the most compelling chapters of his illustrious career.