Wisconsin legend Russell Wilson was named the Pittsburgh Steelers starting quarterback on Wednesday.
Wilson beat out former Chicago Bears QB Justin Fields to win the job. Both were offseason additions by the Steelers, Wilson via signing and Fields via trade. Head coach Mike Tomlin sided with Wilson’s veteran experience entering the year.
Related: Every former Wisconsin Badger to make an NFL 53-man roster entering 2024 regular season
2024 will be Wilson’s 13th NFL season, all as a starting quarterback. He spent 10 seasons with the Seattle Seahawks, two with the Denver Broncos and now one with the Steelers.
The former Badger’s list of accolades is a long one: Super Bowl champion (2013), second-team All-Pro (2019), nine-time Pro Bowler (2012-2015, 2017-2021), Seahawks all-time leading passer and more. He enters 2024 with a career 64.7% completion, 43,653 yards, 334 touchdowns and 106 interceptions, plus 5,307 rushing yards and 29 rushing touchdowns.
While Wilson is one of the better quarterbacks on the generation, he has fallen on hard times over the past few seasons. His two seasons in Denver were by far the worst of his career — the Broncos 11-19 record with him as the starter paints that picture.
Steelers fans hope that a change of scenery is what Wilson needs to return to his Pro Bowl form. Pittsburgh has a strong defense and run-first identity, similar to the Seahawks’ mold during Wilson’s prime.
Steelers have made their decision and Russell Wilson will be the starter for Week 1 @NFLonFOX
— Jay Glazer (@JayGlazer) August 28, 2024
The former Badger will need to stay at the top of his game with Justin Fields waiting in the wings. Fields has the unquestioned talent advantage, and could be called upon to start if things go south with Wilson under center.
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