Russell Wilson is starting over again—and this time, it’s in the black and gold. After a tough run with the Denver Broncos, the veteran quarterback has joined the Pittsburgh Steelers for the 2025 NFL season. It’s one of the biggest offseason moves, and fans across the league are talking about what this could mean for the Steelers’ future.
Wilson, 35, signed a one-year deal with the Steelers in March after being released by the Broncos. The contract is worth just $1.2 million, which is a huge discount for a player who was once seen as a franchise quarterback. Denver will still be paying most of his previous contract—nearly $38 million—so Pittsburgh is getting a big name at a small price.
But why did Wilson choose Pittsburgh? And what does this move really mean?
Russell Wilson was once one of the top quarterbacks in the NFL. He led the Seattle Seahawks to two Super Bowls and won one of them back in 2014. For nearly a decade, he was seen as one of the smartest, most exciting quarterbacks in the game. But things changed after he was traded to the Denver Broncos in 2022.
In Denver, Wilson struggled to find his rhythm. The offense never really clicked, and the Broncos didn’t make the playoffs in either of his two seasons. Many fans started to question if he was still a top-tier quarterback.
When the Broncos decided to release him this offseason, it wasn’t a big surprise. What was surprising was how quickly he found a new home—and how enthusiastic he was about joining the Steelers.
“I’m excited about this opportunity,” Wilson said during his first press conference in Pittsburgh. “This is a historic franchise. I’ve watched the Steelers since I was a kid. The chance to wear this jersey, to fight with these guys—it means everything.”
The Steelers finished the 2024 season with a 10-7 record and made the playoffs but didn’t go very far. They’ve been solid in recent years, but not spectacular. One of their biggest problems? The quarterback position.
Kenny Pickett, who the team drafted in 2022, has had some moments of promise but has struggled with consistency and injuries. Backup Mason Rudolph played well late last season, but he’s now a free agent. The Steelers needed a veteran who could help stabilize the offense—and that’s where Wilson comes in.
“Russ brings experience, leadership, and a winning mindset,” said Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin. “He’s been through the highs and lows of this league. That kind of experience is rare.”
Tomlin also made it clear that Wilson will have to earn the starting job, though many believe he’ll be the Week 1 starter if all goes well in training camp.
Wilson is known for his positive energy and hard-working attitude, but he’s also had some critics over the years. Some former teammates in Denver and Seattle have accused him of being distant or too focused on his personal brand.
But in Pittsburgh, things might be different. The Steelers are known for their strong team culture, no-nonsense approach, and tight-knit locker room. Wilson will need to adapt quickly to that style.
Former Steelers players like Ryan Clark and Ike Taylor have already spoken about the move. “If Russ buys into the Steelers’ way, he could really thrive here,” said Clark on ESPN. “But if he tries to bring any of that Hollywood stuff—it won’t work.”
It seems Wilson knows that. During his media session, he said, “This isn’t about me. It’s about the team. I just want to help us win.”
With Wilson under center, the Steelers’ offense could look very different this year. They still have star running back Najee Harris, dynamic wide receiver George Pickens, and tight end Pat Freiermuth. But they’ll also need to improve the offensive line and give Wilson time to throw.
The team hired Arthur Smith as the new offensive coordinator—he previously led offenses in Tennessee and Atlanta. Smith is known for his run-heavy schemes and play-action passes, which might actually suit Wilson well.
“If they can run the ball and protect him, Russell can still make big plays,” said former NFL quarterback Trent Dilfer. “He’s not the same player he was in 2015, but he’s smart, experienced, and still mobile enough to escape pressure.”
Steelers fans have mixed feelings about the signing. Some are excited to see a proven veteran take over, while others are nervous that Wilson’s best days are behind him.
On social media, the reactions were everywhere—from excitement to cautious optimism to flat-out skepticism.
“Never thought I’d say this, but I’m pumped to see Russ in black and gold. Let’s ride,” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Another fan wrote, “I just hope this doesn’t turn into another quarterback mess. We need stability.”
The truth is, no one knows for sure how this story will play out—but it will definitely be one of the most talked-about storylines of the 2025 season.
Wilson has said all the right things so far. He’s working out, connecting with teammates, and already studying the playbook. He knows that this might be his last real chance to prove he can still lead a team to a championship.
If things go well, he could even earn a longer deal and finish his career in Pittsburgh. If not, it might be the end of the road for the former Super Bowl champ.
“This is about legacy now,” Wilson said. “I’ve got so much more I want to give to this game. I’m not done yet.”
The Steelers didn’t give up much to bring Wilson in—but the reward could be huge. If he plays well, Pittsburgh could become a real contender again. If not, they can walk away without major damage.
It’s a classic low-risk, high-reward situation—and one that could reshape both Wilson’s career and the Steelers’ future.
Whether you’re cheering or doubting, one thing is clear: all eyes will be on Russell Wilson in Pittsburgh this fall.
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