Russell Wilson Named Starting Quarterback for the Steelers: A New Chapter Begins
In a surprising turn of events, Russell Wilson has been named the starting quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers for the upcoming NFL season. This move marks the beginning of a new chapter both for Wilson, who is entering his 13th NFL season, and for the Steelers, whose fans are eager to see how this seasoned veteran will steer their team. The decision comes at a time when Wilson's experience and skill set are seen as key assets for the Steelers' offensive strategy.
Wilson's Career Sacks and Projections
Wilson's career has been defined by his resilience and ability to take hits. Over his 12 seasons in the NFL, he has been sacked an average of 43.9 times per year, amassing a total of 527 sacks. This statistic places him among the most sacked quarterbacks in NFL history, trailing only Tom Brady, who holds the official record with 565 sacks. With projections suggesting that Wilson could reach approximately 570.9 sacks by the end of the 2024 season, he could surpass Fran Tarkenton's unofficial record of 570 sacks.
Other quarterbacks close to Wilson's total include Tom Brady, Ben Roethlisberger with 554 sacks, and Aaron Rodgers with 531. These numbers highlight the physical demands placed on quarterbacks and the resilience required to withstand them season after season.
The Challenge of Defeats
Beyond his tally of sacks, Wilson has the dubious distinction of having suffered defeats at the hands of 29 different NFL teams. This season presents an opportunity for him to extend that record, as losing to both the Cleveland Browns and the Philadelphia Eagles would increase his total to 31 teams. The Steelers are set to face the Browns in Week 12 and Week 14, and the Eagles in Week 15.
A handful of quarterbacks share the ignominy of losing to 30 different teams, including Joe Flacco, currently a backup with the Colts, and Derek Carr, who remains active and has only two teams left to add to his list of defeats: the Raiders and the Panthers. Carr's Saints will encounter the Raiders in Week 1 and the Panthers in Week 9, while Flacco's Colts are slated to play the Lions, the only team he hasn't lost to, in Week 12.
Wilson's Steely Resolve
Russell Wilson's tenacity and unwavering focus are evident in his approach to the game. Addressing whether doubt drives him, Wilson candidly states, "I never had it to keep me going. I've never been -- I don't know why -- I've just never been worried about what other people think." This mindset underscores his mental fortitude and explains why he has remained a formidable competitor in the league for over a decade.
Faith also plays a central role in Wilson's life and career. "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," he elaborates. "I'm one of 32 men in the world that get to do what I do, get to play this game every day." His perspective on playing in the NFL highlights a profound sense of purpose and gratitude.
Looking to the Future
As the Steelers prepare for the upcoming season, starting with their Week 1 matchup against the Falcons, the focus will be on Wilson's performance and the stability he can bring to the team. Justin Fields, seen as a potential contender for the starting quarterback position, will be waiting in the wings should Wilson falter. However, with Wilson's experience and steadfast mentality, he is poised to bring a new level of intensity and leadership to Pittsburgh.