Insider updates how much Steelers may have to pay Russell Wilson this offseason

While NFL insider Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated suggested last week that the Pittsburgh Steelers could let veteran quarterback Russell Wilson test free agency in March 2025 "and ask him to give them the right to match whatever is out there," it seems with each win that Wilson becomes more and more popular in the Pittsburgh locker room. 

Thus, it's not all that surprising that individuals such as Steelers reporter Mike DeFabo of The Athletic are now addressing what the 10-3 team will have to pay Wilson to retain the 36-year-old's services during the upcoming offseason. 

"While the Steelers might want to minimize risk with a shorter deal, the market says Wilson could command a three or four-year contract with an annual average in the $40-$45M range -- maybe even more if money is his biggest motivator," DeFabo said for a piece published Tuesday.

Wilson signed a team-friendly contract to join the Steelers this past March and then missed the opening six weeks of the season due to a lingering calf injury. He has since won six of seven starts and has repeatedly been referred to as "a hell of a quarterback" and a tremendous leader by noteworthy teammates such as tight end Pat Freiermuth.

Some previously speculated that Pittsburgh could hold onto Wilson via a contract similar to the three-year, $100M deal that Baker Mayfield received from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers last offseason. Wilson could earn an even better deal come March if he guides the Steelers to the AFC North division title and at least one playoff win. 

According to Pro Football Reference, Wilson began Tuesday ranked 18th in the NFL among qualified players with a 57.1 adjusted QBR and sixth with a 103.9 passer rating for the season. He tossed 12 touchdown passes and three interceptions over seven games. 

"Perhaps Wilson would realize he’s already made more than $300M in his career and that winning is worth more at this stage than another hefty contract," DeFabo continued. "However, for players, salaries are often a sign of respect. The Steelers shouldn’t be counting on Wilson taking a huge hometown discount in a city in which he hasn’t even spent a whole year. If the Steelers want a veteran QB with a Super Bowl resume, there’s a cost to doing business."

Wilson will attempt to build upon his Steelers resume during this coming Sunday's game at an 11-2 Philadelphia Eagles side that may be going through some things at the moment. As of Tuesday afternoon, DraftKings Sportsbook listed Pittsburgh as a 4.5-point underdog for that contest.