The Pittsburgh Steelers made waves with the signing of former Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson to a one-year deal at the veteran minimum. While the news sparked excitement, some harbored reservations due to Wilson’s struggles in Denver.
Steelers Russell Wilson
Ben Swanson / Denver Broncos
Steelers’ QB Russell Wilson during his time as the Denver Broncos QB.
However, during an episode of The Pat McAfee Show, where Pat McAfee and Tone Digs analyzed a new video of Wilson’s workout, McAfee disclosed insights from quarterback mechanics coach Quincy Avery. Avery highlighted how Wilson seemed to have addressed some of the throwing mechanics issues observed during his tenure with the Broncos.
“He’s a quarterback coach and he said, ‘Da*n, Russell Wilson is seemingly a little bit more rotational. Might help with the accuracy. Some of the flaws over the last couple of years might have been fixed in some offseason workouts. Might be getting the best Russell Wilson that they’ve seen in some time.'”
Adding to the discussion, Digs, a Steelers fan himself, emphasized the significance of the team’s quarterback situation. Reflecting on the tenure of Ben Roethlisberger, he expressed his belief that the Steelers have rarely boasted such a promising quarterback lineup.
Digs couldn’t contain his enthusiasm for what lies ahead in the 2024 season, highlighting the renewed sense of optimism permeating among Steelers fans.
“Someone on the internet put it side by side to a former Steelers quarterback workout and the amount of zip that this man has on his ball, compared to past quarterbacks that the Steelers have had, excluding [Roethlisberger]. The amount of zip, the accuracy, the way he moves in the pocket. The moxie is unbelievable. The stride, the drive, boy oh boy am I a confident human being going into next year.”
The failed Wilson experiment in Denver may have inadvertently played into the Steelers’ favor—indeed, it did. Denver’s hefty investment in Wilson, with a staggering $242 million contract signed just two seasons ago, ultimately paved the way for Pittsburgh to acquire him for the veteran minimum. By doing so, the Steelers assumed minimal risk, while Denver bore the brunt of the financial burden.
Steelers Russell Wilson
Steelers.com
Steelers’ QB Russell Wilson speaks with members of the Pittsburgh media.
Bringing in a nine-time Pro Bowler and Super Bowl champion like Wilson without assuming any financial risk is a significant coup for the Steelers.
During his stint with the Broncos, Wilson’s performance was mixed. Despite winning just 11 games and losing 19, he showcased solid numbers, completing 63.3% of his passes and amassing 6,594 yards, 42 touchdowns, and 19 interceptions over two seasons. While these stats may not catapult him into MVP discussions, they represent a significant upgrade over Pittsburgh’s quarterback performances in recent years.
Steelers Solved Their Biggest Issue In 2024 Offseason
The Steelers have grappled with quarterback and offensive woes in recent seasons. However, the acquisition of Wilson presents a potential game-changer. If Wilson can efficiently manage the football and contribute a couple of touchdowns per game, the dynamic Steelers defense, led by stars like TJ Watt and Minkah Fitzpatrick, can effectively hold the fort. The stage is set for the 2024 Steelers to make a statement.
Steelers TJ Watt
Abigail Dean / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers’ outside linebacker TJ Watt scoops up a loose ball in the fourth quarter during Week two in 2023 against the Cleveland Browns.
With an array of offensive weapons at their disposal and Wilson fueled by a thirst for redemption, the Steelers are poised to captivate audiences in the upcoming season. The defense, anchored by stalwarts like Watt and Fitzpatrick, has consistently kept the team competitive. The addition of star linebacker Patrick Queen only enhances their formidable stature.
Now armed with a quarterback with Hall of Fame potential, the Steelers have a renewed sense of purpose. Wilson’s determination, coupled with his track record of success, positions him as a catalyst for the team’s resurgence. Under the seasoned leadership of head coach Mike Tomlin, Wilson is primed to reaffirm his status as one of the league’s premier quarterbacks.
Expressing a desire for a long-term commitment to Pittsburgh, Wilson understands the importance of delivering a standout performance in 2024. Steelers fans have every reason to be excited as their team embarks on a journey fueled by promise and potential.
