In a surprising move, the Pittsburgh Steelers have secured the talents of veteran quarterback Russell Wilson, signing him to a one-year deal per Adam Schefter.
This acquisition marks a significant development for the Steelers, injecting a new level of experience and leadership into their quarterback position, a spot that has seen the likes of Kenny Pickett and Mason Rudolph occupy the role in recent memory.
Nine-time Pro-Bowl QB and former Super-Bowl champ Russell Wilson plans to sign with the Pittsburgh Steelers, per league sources. Wilson will sign a team-friendly, one-year deal in which the Broncos will wind up paying $38 million of his salary while Wilson wears the black and… pic.twitter.com/eqQC8w0tIK
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 11, 2024
Steelers fans had some thoughts about the situation, running to their keyboards and sending their posts on X, reacting to the decision by the franchise to acquire the former Pro Bowler and Super Bowl champion.
Great pickup for the Steelers. With Tomlin as HC, they only need-half-of-the-league QB play to be contenders.
— JustGregory (@FantasyGregory) March 11, 2024
Steelers Nation…LET’S RIDE pic.twitter.com/ToDVsqxpJz
— FanDuel (@FanDuel) March 11, 2024
Don’t love it. I never wanted him or fields. But I also don’t want Pickett to ever be the starter again. So I’m stuck
— Matt (@SteelerVol4Life) March 11, 2024
I give it a C.
— Mateo Kokic (@MateoKokic1) March 11, 2024
I have serious doubts that this will work unless Mike Tomlin has a say in it for making them a playoff contending team, but I just don't see it. We maybe in the playoffs since Tomlin is a winning coach, but it won't change a thing with RW in the mix. TJM.
Steelers fans have mixed emotions about signing QB Russell Wilson
Amidst the enthusiasm surrounding the Steelers' acquisition of Russell Wilson, some fans approach the situation with a degree of caution. Few will forget the big deal that sent Wilson from the Seattle Seahawks to the Denver Broncos, and how that ultimately turned out. While Pittsburgh didn't trade for Wilson, they are well aware of how things transpired in the Mile High City.
The concerns are not solely about Wilson's ability but also about the broader dynamics within the team. Various factors, including team chemistry, coaching strategies, and adaptability, were all called into question during Wilson's first stop away from the Pacific Northwest. There is a bright side to all of this. With only a short-term commitment, the Steelers have the opportunity to assess Wilson's performance within their system without a long-term financial obligation.
This flexibility allows the team to pivot in the future based on Wilson's impact, providing a pragmatic solution to addressing their quarterback needs without compromising the team's long-term financial stability. However, as with any high-profile signing, there are also cautious voices, emphasizing the need for the team to address other areas and ensure a well-rounded approach to the upcoming season.