BREAKING NEWS: Russell Wilson’s strong 7-word message, workout video will hype Steelers fans
Russell Wilson is beginning his time with the Steelers with a positive attitude. During the 2024 NFL free agency, the Pittsburgh Steelers revamped their quarterback lineup by acquiring Russell Wilson, who previously played for the Seattle Seahawks and later the Denver Broncos. Upon his arrival, Wilson shared a workout video along with an encouraging message for fans, stating, “Love the Work. The Best is Ahead,” on his X page on Wednesday. This brief statement was accompanied by footage of Wilson engaging in different throwing drills.
Love the Work. The Best Is Ahead. pic.twitter.com/4dl997br5g
— Russell Wilson (@DangeRussWilson) March 20, 2024
The ex-Broncos quarterback appears excited for his fresh start in Pittsburgh following years of NFL experience.
Steelers get a diamond in the rough in Wilson
Russell Wilson commenced his professional journey with the Seattle Seahawks subsequent to being drafted by the team in the third round of the 2012 NFL Draft. The former Wisconsin Badger exhibited promise in his rookie year, accumulating 3,118 yards and 26 touchdowns, thereby securing his inaugural Pro Bowl recognition.
His performance remained consistently strong in the ensuing seasons, with the year 2014 standing out as particularly remarkable.
During the 2013-14 season, the Seahawks concluded the regular season with an impressive 13-3 record, clinching the NFC’s top seed. Wilson played a pivotal role in the team’s success, amassing 3,357 yards and 26 touchdowns.
His adept command of the offense proved instrumental in securing Seattle’s first and only Super Bowl triumph, a resounding 43-8 victory over Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos. Wilson’s achievements continued to flourish; in addition to his accolades in his early seasons, he went on to participate in seven more Pro Bowls with the Seahawks.
Wilson remained with the Seahawks for a decade, with one of his most stellar seasons occurring in his ninth year, where he recorded 4,212 yards and a career-best 40 touchdowns in 16 games. However, his performance experienced a slight decline the subsequent season, leading to his departure from the team for Denver in 2022.
Upon joining the Broncos, Wilson encountered challenges as the team struggled, posting a 5-12 record in his inaugural year, failing to secure a playoff berth. Despite leading the team to an improved 8-9 record in the following season, they still fell short of reaching the postseason.
Following the end of his second season with the Broncos, Wilson became a free agent and opted to bring his talents to the well-established Steelers franchise.
Wilson looks to be re-unlocked on a revamped Pittsburgh team
Russell Wilson is entering the upcoming season after recording 3,070 passing yards and 26 touchdowns in 15 games. He aims to regain his top-tier performance alongside a talented Steelers team.
Of particular note is the return of third-year wide receiver George Pickens, who showed promise by accumulating 1,140 yards and 5 touchdowns on 6 receptions last season, ranking him 16th in the league. Pickens is expected to be a key target for Wilson in the upcoming season.
Furthermore, Pittsburgh retains the services of fourth-year running back Najee Harris, who had an impressive performance on the ground last season, providing a reliable rushing option that should alleviate pressure on Wilson’s passing game.
Additionally, the Steelers bolstered their quarterback depth by acquiring former Chicago Bears QB Justin Fields after Kenney Pickett’s departure during NFL free agency.
Making room for the next generation
The Bears concluded the 2023-24 season with a 7-10 record, a significant improvement from their 3-14 performance the previous year. Justin Fields has led Chicago’s offense since his drafting in 2021, yet the team failed to make any postseason appearances during his tenure. Consequently, Chicago sought to trade the young quarterback.
Ultimately, the Steelers agreed to a deal, acquiring Fields in exchange for a sixth-round pick, which could potentially become a fourth-rounder if Fields participates in 51% of the games in the 2023-24 season. Now, at 24 years old, Fields aims to further develop his skills in a new environment.
Few quarterbacks in the league possess the experience of Russell Wilson, making him an ideal mentor for Fields. The former Bears QB is coming off a season where he threw for a career-high 2,562 yards and 16 touchdowns in 13 games.
With Wilson’s guidance, it is hoped that Fields can achieve newfound success.
Overall, the Steelers’ offensive overhaul adds an intriguing element to the unfolding of the 2024 season.