Stephen A. Smith Calls for Russell Wilson Move After Giants QB Demotion

Wilson’s play in the opening three weeks has fallen well below expectations. His accuracy has wavered, and the Giants’ offense has struggled to sustain drives and put points on the scoreboard. In Week 3 against the Kansas City Chiefs, Wilson completed 18 of 32 passes for 160 yards, with no touchdowns and two interceptions as the Giants suffered a 22-9 loss at home. That showing fueled frustration among fans and contributed to the decision to bench him.

While Wilson continues to adjust to his new role on the Giants, the 36-year-old received support elsewhere. During a Thursday morning episode of ESPN’s First Take, Stephen A. Smith discussed Eli Manning’s Hall of Fame case, defending Wilson’s legacy and urging the NFL to not discard his early success when considering his place in Canton.

“They asked about Russell Wilson and all I was saying is that Eli Manning was denied that first Ballot Hall of Fame slot,” Smith said. “You're going to look at what happens to him because if he gets in you can't keep Russell Wilson out.”

Smith double-down on his take, explaining why Eli is not more qualified than Wilson:

“Eli Manning does have two Super Bowl rings. He played 17 years in the NFL. He had a winning season seven times… His record is a career .500, 117 and 117. Russell Wilson is 41 games over .500. The first nine years of his career he had a winning record. He went to as many Super Bowl appearances and won a chip. When I look at the totality of his resume, I'm saying, if you put Eli in, there's no way you can keep him out.”

The comparison highlights Manning’s career, defined by two Super Bowl runs despite an even regular season record, versus Wilson’s strong early consistency. Still, Wilson’s last three seasons in Denver and Pittsburgh have damaged his case, leaving him far removed from the dominance of his Seattle years.

Meanwhile, the Giants confirmed rookie Jaxson Dart will take Wilson’s place as the starting quarterback against the Los Angeles Chargers this week. Wilson will now have to adapt to a situation he’s been unfamiliar with for much of his career, while he continues to hope for an opportunity to prove himself again.