Former Wisconsin legend might be the best deep-ball thrower this season

Former Wisconsin legend might be the best deep-ball thrower this season

Former Wisconsin quarterback Russell Wilson is Pro Football Focus’ highest-graded quarterback on throws of 15+ yards this season.

Wilson’s 2024 output with the Pittsburgh Steelers is somewhat of a resurgence. After going 11-19 as the Denver Broncos starting quarterback from 2022-2023, the UW alumnus is playing some of the best football of his career this season.

In six games as the Steelers starter, Wilson has totaled 1,626 passing yards, 10 touchdowns and a quarterback rating of 104.3. His 271 yards per game clip would be the highest of his career.

Wilson most recently showcased his deep ball prowess in the Steelers’ 44-38 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday. The nine-time Pro Bowler went 29-of-38 for 414 yards and three touchdowns to earn his fifth win as a starter.

In that contest, Wilson made several high-level deep throws. His most significant came when he a 23-yard laser to wide receiver Calvin Austin III at the beginning of the second quarter, plus a 25-yard dime to tight end Pat Freiermuth for a touchdown later in the third quarter.

Wilson might not be as dynamic of a rusher as he once was, but he can still throw the deep ball as well as any quarterback in the NFL.

At 9-3, the Steelers are in position to win the AFC North and clinch a home playoff game. They will return to the gridiron on Dec. 8 vs. the division rival Cleveland Browns.