Russell Wilson played at a level that was almost perfect for the Hall of Fame for the Seattle Seahawks during his incredible first NFL stint. Subsequently, Wilson’s two seasons with the Denver Broncos were so miserable that the trade and contract will rank among the worst in NFL history.
We’ll see what happens in the third act. Wilson confirmed numerous media reports by announcing on social media on Sunday that he intends to sign with the Pittsburgh Steelers. The terms of the agreement were not disclosed, but according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, it is a one-year contract that includes the Broncos paying $38 million of Wilson’s 2024 salary.
Two years ago when the Broncos traded for Wilson, there was a lot of excitement over what was to come. This time around, nobody knows what will happen next.
Wilson couldn’t have found a much better situation to turn his career back around. The Steelers are a perennial winner coming off another playoff trip. They have talent on both sides of the ball and a respected head coach in Mike Tomlin.
What they didn’t have was an answer at quarterback. The Steelers drafted Kenny Pickett in the first round two years ago, and the signing of Wilson indicates the team has soured on that experiment. They get a veteran option at quarterback with plenty of success in his past and a Super Bowl ring as well.
The Steelers didn’t have a lot of salary cap space but that wasn’t a problem with Wilson because the Broncos owed him a large 2024 salary. And because of offset language, Wilson could sign for the veteran minimum with his new team. It’s a good fit for both sides. It’s a nearly risk-free acquisition for the Steelers and a chance for Wilson to change his legacy again.
