As the Pittsburgh Steelers gear up for the upcoming NFL season, the spotlight is firmly on Russell Wilson, who has been named the team's starting quarterback. Entering his 13th NFL season, Wilson brings a wealth of experience and resilience to Pittsburgh.
Wilson's Career and Challenges
Wilson's journey in the NFL has been marked by both remarkable success and significant challenges. He has been sacked an average of 43.9 times per year, culminating in a career total of 527 sacks. This places him in close company with some of the most sacked quarterbacks in NFL history, including Tom Brady (565), Ben Roethlisberger (554), and Aaron Rodgers (531). Wilson is projected to reach approximately 570.9 sacks by the conclusion of the 2024 season, potentially surpassing Fran Tarkenton's unofficial record of 570 sacks and Tom Brady’s official record.
Undeterred by the physical toll, Wilson remains focused on his faith and his unique purpose within the game. "I never had it to keep me going," he states regarding whether doubt drives him. "I've never been -- I don't know why --- I've just never been worried about what other people think."
With this mindset, Wilson maintains a clear sense of purpose and gratitude. "I think ultimately I focus on, as I mentioned to you guys -- obviously my faith means everything to me. God chose me for this, and He chose me to play this game. I'm one of 32 men in the world that get to do what I do, get to play this game every day," he declares.
Potential Records and Challenges
Another intriguing narrative this season involves Wilson's potential to record losses against almost every team in the league. To date, he has been defeated by 29 different NFL teams. If the Steelers experience losses against both the Cleveland Browns and the Philadelphia Eagles this season, Wilson will find himself having lost to 31 different teams – a rare and unenviable distinction, matched by only a select few.
The Steelers will clash with the Browns in Week 12 and Week 14, and with the Eagles in Week 15. Currently, ten quarterbacks have recorded losses to 30 different teams. Among active quarterbacks, Derek Carr shares this record, having lost to every NFL team except for his former team, the Raiders, and the Panthers. Carr will face challenges this season, as the Saints, his current team, go up against the Raiders in Week 1 and the Panthers in Week 9. Meanwhile, Joe Flacco, now a backup with the Colts, has lost to 30 different teams - all but the Lions, whom the Colts will play in Week 12.
Steelers’ Strategic Moves
For the Steelers, the arrival of Wilson signals the start of a new chapter. The season opens with a matchup against the Falcons in Week 1. Wilson's role as starting quarterback is pivotal, but the team is not without contingency plans. Should Wilson falter, there is consideration for Justin Fields as a potential contender for the starting spot.
The Steelers' decision to bring in Wilson reflects their aim to leverage his extensive experience and resilience, qualities that could prove crucial as the season unfolds. The team's ability to navigate this landscape with Wilson at the helm will be of keen interest to both fans and analysts.
As this season progresses, Wilson’s individual milestones and the Steelers’ collective ambitions will undoubtedly be closely watched. Whether surpassing sack records or navigating defeats, Wilson's journey remains a testament to resilience and faith, embodying the highs and lows of professional football.