Russell Wilson is set to embark on a new chapter with the Pittsburgh Steelers as their starting quarterback for the upcoming NFL season. Entering his 13th season, Wilson brings a wealth of experience and a resilient spirit to the storied franchise.
Wilson’s NFL journey has been remarkable, marked by his capacity to overcome obstacles both on and off the field. Over the course of his career, one such persistent challenge has been the number of sacks he has endured—an average of 43.9 times per season, accumulating a staggering total of 527 sacks. It's a testament not only to his physical toughness but also to his mental fortitude.
"I never had it to keep me going," Wilson said when asked if doubt propels him. "I've never been -- I don't know why -- I've just never been worried about what other people think."
As Wilson prepares for his first season with the Steelers, he's projected to surpass some significant milestones. If the projections hold, he will reach approximately 570.9 sacks by the end of the 2024 season, overtaking Fran Tarkenton's unofficial record of 570 and Tom Brady's official record of 565. This milestone would place Wilson among the most sacked quarterbacks in NFL history, joining the ranks of Brady, Ben Roethlisberger (554), and Aaron Rodgers (531).
Wilson's profound sense of purpose and faith are evident in his approach to the game. "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 explained. "I'm one of 32 men in the world that get to do what I do, get to play this game every day."
This season also presents a potential personal milestone in Wilson’s journey of resilience and perseverance. To date, he has suffered defeats to 29 different NFL teams. If the Steelers lose to both the Cleveland Browns and the Philadelphia Eagles this season, Wilson will have been defeated by 31 different teams, an achievement held by only a select few quarterbacks.
While Wilson's focus remains on each game ahead, the Steelers' schedule provides ample opportunity for such historic contests. The Steelers will face the Browns in Week 12 and Week 14, and the Eagles in Week 15. Wilson's ability to navigate these challenges will be crucial as he aims to lead Pittsburgh to a strong season.
As Wilson faces this season with the Steelers, he might draw from the experiences of other quarterbacks who have also etched their names in NFL history through perseverance against numerous teams. Derek Carr, for instance, stands as the only active quarterback with losses to 30 different teams. Carr will have a chance to maintain that mark when the Saints face the Raiders in Week 1 and the Panthers in Week 9.
Joe Flacco, who is now a backup with the Colts, has also been defeated by 30 different teams, missing just a loss to the Lions—a gap that he might fill in Week 12 this season.
The Steelers' journey with Wilson at the helm begins in Week 1 against the Falcons. As a seasoned veteran, Wilson is expected to inject a blend of experience and tactical acumen into a team eager for success. However, should Wilson falter, Justin Fields is a potential contender for the starting quarterback position, underscoring the competitive environment within the Steelers' camp.
Russell Wilson's move to the Steelers signifies more than just a transfer; it's an opportunity for renewal and legacy-building. As the season unfolds, the football world will be watching to see how Wilson navigates the latest phase of his illustrious career.