The Pittsburgh Steelers need a quarterback, and apparently, they are going to begin their search with new free agent Russell Wilson. Wilson was just officially released by the Denver Broncos earlier this week in a record-breaking move. That record being the $85 million in dead cap money that the Broncos have to take on by releasing the former Super Bowl Champion.
Wilson, 35, was acquired by the Broncos two off-season's ago after having a wonderful career in Seattle. The trade produced a very lucrative haul for the Seahawks including three first round picks, and three second round picks among other assets. But it was a disaster for the Broncos.
Shortly after lunch on Thursday, Pittsburgh Post Gazette writer and Steelers insider Gerry Dulac dropped a news bomb on the sports world by breaking the story about the Steelers interest in Wilson.
The Steelers have been connected to many quarterbacks so far this offseason. Whether it's Kirk Cousins, Justin Fields, Ryan Tannehill or Baker Mayfield. But none of those guys come with the Super Bowl pedigree of Wilson. Another huge factor for the Steelers and Wilson is that it's likely going to only cost the team the veteran minimum to sign Wilson. The Broncos are on the hook to pay Wilson even though he's been released.
It will be interesting to see what the plan would be if Wilson and Pittsburgh can come to an agreement. Wilson is likely nearing the end of his career, but it's hard to believe he will be open to a backup role. Dulac has pointed out several times in his weekly chats that he didn't expect Wilson to entertain the Steelers because he would be coming to be second behind Kenny Pickett.
Plenty of people, players included, are open to a competition in the quarterback room. If Wilson ends up signing in Pittsburgh, that won't immediately lock him in as the top signal-caller on the depth chart. That will be the talk throughout the offseason and into training camp, but Head Coach Mike Tomlin won't openly hand the job to Wilson because of his experience.
The team believes in Pickett, or so they have said. His third year is a critical one as the organization will need to decide if it's worth it to pick up his fifth-year option for 2026 in 2025. If he does indeed ride the bench behind Wilson, it's hard to tell how much longer he will be with the Steelers. The opportunity to learn from Wilson and tale a backseat might be good for the young quarterback, however.
Wilson, a former third-round pick of Seattle, is preparing to enter his 13th NFL season. Say what you want about his age; he is a Super Bowl-winning quarterback. Pittsburgh doesn't need a dominant force at the position if the defense remains healthy and offensive line is revamped throughout the offseason. A move like bringing in Wilson breaks the mold of Steelers' tradition, and should be a welcomed sight for fans.
Steelers Meeting With Wilson Proves Quarterback Move Coming Soon
No one is absolutely sure what Pittsburgh's plan is at quarterback, but bringing in a guy like Wilson is not a "safe" move. It is financially with him expected to sign for the veteran minimum given how much money Denver owes him, but he's a high-profile name that will bring plenty of attention to the team. The Steelers may not land Wilson, but don't rule out a guy like Fields. It's clear that they are lurking behind the scenes ready to upgrade the position.
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