Russell Wilson Named Steelers' Starting QB: A New Era Begins
In a surprising move that has sent ripples across the NFL landscape, Russell Wilson has been named the starting quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers for the upcoming season. Heading into his 13th season, Wilson brings a wealth of experience and resilience to his new team.
The former Seattle Seahawks star has had a remarkable career, marked by both achievements and challenges. Over his career, Wilson has been sacked a staggering 527 times, averaging 43.9 sacks per season. This places him on the verge of breaking some significant records in NFL history.
“I never had it to keep me going,” Wilson said about whether he’s driven by doubt. “I've never been -- I don't know why --- I've just never been worried about what other people think.” His unshakeable confidence has undoubtedly played a part in maintaining his performance at an elite level.
As it stands, Tom Brady holds the official sack record with 565, while Fran Tarkenton has an unofficial record of 570 sacks. With projections estimating Wilson will hit approximately 570.9 sacks by the end of the 2024 season, he is on track to surpass these numbers. This statistic places Wilson in the company of some of the game's most enduring quarterbacks, such as Ben Roethlisberger (554) and Aaron Rodgers (531).
More than just a passer under pressure, Wilson has experienced defeats against 29 different NFL teams. This number could climb to 31 if the Steelers falter against the Cleveland Browns in Week 12 or Week 14, and the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 15. Such a feat would position Wilson among a select group of quarterbacks who've lost to 30 or more teams, including active players like Derek Carr and Joe Flacco.
Wilson’s dedication to his faith provides him with an additional layer of mental fortitude. “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.”
As the Steelers embark on this new chapter, all eyes will be on their Week 1 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons. The franchise, known for its storied history and strong fan base, is looking to Wilson to bring stability and leadership to a team in transition. However, the presence of Justin Fields as a potential contender for the starting position indicates that competition will be fierce.
Fields, a rising talent, could step in if Wilson struggles. This dynamic could make for a compelling narrative throughout the season, especially for a team that has seen its share of quarterback changes in recent years.
Meanwhile, across the league, other quarterbacks are facing their own challenges. Derek Carr, who has lost to 30 different teams, aims to avoid adding the Raiders and the Panthers to his list. The Saints, Carr's team, are set to take on the Raiders in Week 1 and the Panthers in Week 9. Similarly, Joe Flacco, now a backup with the Colts, stands a chance to add the Lions to his list of defeats when the two teams meet in Week 12.
For the Steelers and Wilson, the journey begins now. With a new environment and fresh challenges, it remains to be seen how this latest chapter in Wilson's illustrious career will unfold. As the season progresses, both Wilson and the Steelers will aim to prove that this new partnership can yield success and perhaps a bit of history along the way.
The upcoming months promise to be one of the most intriguing periods for Wilson, the Steelers, and the legions of fans who will be watching every snap with bated breath. The pressure is on, but if anyone is accustomed to facing it head-on, it's Russell Wilson.