Russell Wilson, the seasoned quarterback, will celebrate his 36th birthday next week and has begun to regain his footing in the NFL after some challenging years. Currently in his 13th season, Wilson has solidified his role as the starting quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers. The team is demonstrating its commitment to Wilson, having prioritized him during the offseason despite a competitive free-agent landscape, particularly after the trade for Justin Fields.
The Steelers have publicly stated that Wilson is their focus, and although he recently underwent a minor calf injury that caused him to miss early games, he has maintained good health since then. Wilson’s performance has been encouraging, leading the Steelers to a perfect 4-0 record since he stepped in as a starter, throwing six touchdown passes versus two interceptions with an average of 7.8 yards per attempt. However, this limited playing time means his overall league ranking is still not reflective of his potential.
Despite ongoing talks of a contract extension, the Steelers are sticking to their long-standing policy of avoiding contract negotiations during the season, which could limit their options moving forward. With the franchise tag becoming an unlikely choice due to its substantial value, the quarterback will likely seek a contract that reflects his talents and past achievements without burdening the team’s salary cap.
The Steelers organization has faced difficulties in the quarterback position since Ben Roethlisberger’s injury in 2019, and Wilson’s resurgence offers a glimmer of hope. His fate moving forward will not only influence his career but also shape the Steelers’ strategy in the 2025 offseason, especially with fellow quarterback Fields also becoming a free agent.
As Wilson continues to improve, Pittsburgh fans have every reason to be optimistic. His experience and leadership could be key to revitalizing the team’s competitiveness. The coming weeks will be crucial, not just for Wilson’s personal success but also for the Steelers as they navigate a pivotal period in their franchise history. With a promising track ahead, Wilson could be instrumental in restoring the Steelers to their former glory.