In a season that delivered its share of highs and lows, the Pittsburgh Steelers navigated their 2024 campaign with a measure of resilience and reflection. The arrival of Russell Wilson as the team’s quarterback injected a mix of optimism and challenges as the franchise grappled with finding its footing in a competitive league atmosphere.
Early Struggles and Mid-season Momentum
The Steelers' season didn't start seamlessly as Wilson began sidelined by a calf injury. This absence opened the door for Justin Fields, who steered the team to a promising 4-2 start. Fields' ability to hold the fort gave Steelers fans something to cheer about while waiting for Wilson's return.
Returning in Week 7, Wilson made an immediate impact, leading Pittsburgh to a crucial victory against the New York Jets. His temporary absence seemed to do little to diminish his playmaking abilities. As Wilson remarked, "We weren't able to finish, and we obviously didn't start good enough in games," acknowledging some of the inherent challenges the team faced.
Wilson’s Influence and Team Performance
Wilson’s influence extended beyond the field, as he brought veteran experience and leadership to a locker room ready to compete. After his return, Wilson posted wins against formidable opponents such as the Ravens and the Commanders, a testament to his competence in high-stakes matchups.
His first loss with the Steelers marked a nail-biting encounter with Cleveland in Week 12. Given the team’s record at that point, there was a palpable sense of what could have been. "This place that I think can win a lot. I think we have a championship caliber football team," Wilson expressed, underscoring his faith in the team's untapped potential.
The Late Season Dip
The latter part of the season revealed the team's vulnerabilities, particularly on offense, as they struggled to exceed 17 points in their final five outings. It was a troubling trend that highlighted the roadblocks the team needed to overcome. Critical interceptions from Wilson against strong opponents like Baltimore and Kansas City demonstrated that while the prowess was there, execution sometimes faltered. Echoing this sentiment, Wilson noted, "Obviously, it didn't go in the way we wanted it to."
The Steelers improved to a respectable 10-3 record with significant wins against divisional rivals like the Bengals and Browns, but a five-game losing streak loomed ominously over their progress. Wilson's one-year contract tenure was pounding louder with the ticking clock, leaving fans and analysts speculating about his future role in the franchise.
Looking Ahead
With an offseason filled with questions, the Steelers are already strategizing future plans. The continuity in coaching, with the return of Mike Tomlin for the 2025 season, offers stability and a renewed chance for planning. Tomlin's leadership remains a linchpin for the team's aspirations, as Wilson notably praised, "I just love the guys. I love the locker room. I love coach Tomlin."
As the chapter of the 2024 season closes, Wilson’s reflections encapsulate a broader perspective on the year’s journey. "But I love playing football. I love playing the game," he stated, reaffirming his passion despite the hurdles faced. Whether Wilson will continue to don the Steelers uniform in the coming season or blaze new trails elsewhere remains to be seen.
The Steelers' 2024 season, while imperfect, highlighted moments of brilliance that provide a foundation for future success. It's a testament to a team on the brink of rediscovering its winning ways, armed with the lessons of past experiences and bolstered by the unyielding spirit encapsulated by their quarterback’s optimistic outlook.