Steelers Sign Veteran Quarterback Russell Wilson in Bid to Boost Playoff Hopes

A trusted source informed The Associated Press on Sunday night that the nine-time Pro Bowl quarterback has reached an agreement to sign a one-year contract with the Steelers.

Under the terms of the deal, the 35-year-old quarterback will receive the veteran’s minimum salary of $1.21 million from the Steelers, while the Denver Broncos will cover the remaining portion of his $39 million salary.

Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, Wilson expressed his gratitude, stating, “Year 13. Grateful. @Steelers.”

Wilson, who spent two seasons with the Broncos after being traded from Seattle, posted a record of 11-19 during his tenure. Despite a strong performance in the 2023 season with 3,070 yards, 26 touchdowns, and only eight interceptions, he ultimately lost his starting position to Jarrett Stidham.

During his decade-long stint with the Seahawks, Wilson led the team to eight playoff appearances and a Super Bowl victory.

The Steelers, who fell short in a wild-card playoff game with Mason Rudolph at quarterback, have been seeking a solution at the position. Rudolph, who went 3-0 as a starter, replaced Kenny Pickett after he suffered an injury. With Mitch Trubisky starting the remaining two games and going 0-2, the Steelers are looking for stability under center.

The move to sign Wilson comes after Broncos informed him of their intention to release him at the start of the new league year. Wilson was granted permission to explore opportunities with other teams.

The Steelers’ decision to pursue Wilson comes despite recent statements expressing confidence in Pickett, who was drafted in 2022. Head coach Mike Tomlin has stood by Pickett, but the addition of Wilson suggests a desire to bolster the quarterback position.

Wilson joins a Steelers team filled with youthful talent on offense, including running backs Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, and wide receivers George Pickens and Diontae Johnson. Defensively, the team boasts stars like T.J. Watt and Minkah Fitzpatrick.

With Wilson onboard, the Steelers aim to close the gap between themselves and the AFC’s top contenders. Team president Art Rooney II emphasized the need for playoff success, setting high expectations for the upcoming season.

Wilson’s arrival provides the Steelers with financial flexibility in free agency as they seek to address various positions on both offense and defense. The team’s aggressive approach signals their commitment to returning to playoff contention after enduring a lengthy postseason drought.