In a remarkable career resurgence, veteran quarterback Russell Wilson has revitalized his performance with the Pittsburgh Steelers, leading to speculation about a substantial multi-year contract in the upcoming offseason. ESPN’s Dan Graziano has highlighted the possibility of Wilson securing a significant deal, potentially similar to Baker Mayfield’s three-year, $100 million contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Wilson’s journey to this point has been notable. After a challenging tenure with the Denver Broncos, where he was released just two years into a major contract, Wilson joined the Steelers on a one-year, $1.21 million deal in March 2024. This move was seen by many as a final opportunity for the 36-year-old quarterback to prove his capabilities. Since taking over as the starter, Wilson has led the Steelers to a 5-1 record, including a standout performance against the Cincinnati Bengals, where he threw for 414 yards and three touchdowns.
Graziano emphasizes that while Wilson is unlikely to command a top-tier contract comparable to the likes of Dak Prescott’s four-year, $240 million deal, a mid-tier contract remains plausible. He notes the current NFL landscape, where several teams are in need of experienced quarterbacks, and the upcoming draft class lacks depth in quarterback talent. This scenario increases the likelihood of teams viewing Wilson as a valuable asset to lead them into playoff contention.
The Steelers face a pivotal decision regarding their quarterback situation. Both Wilson and Justin Fields are set to become free agents in 2025. Fields, who started the first six games of the season while Wilson was recovering from injury, has shown promise and is a decade younger than Wilson. The team must weigh the benefits of Wilson’s veteran experience and recent success against Fields’ potential and youth.
Graziano points out that the Steelers’ decision will depend heavily on the remainder of the season. He states, “I think the plan going in was Russell helps us win now, we can develop Justin Fields for the future. But I think there’s a lot of season left and anyone in Pittsburgh would tell you they’re a long way from making that decision.”
As the season progresses, Wilson’s performance will be under close scrutiny. If he continues to lead the Steelers successfully, it could not only bolster his case for a substantial contract with Pittsburgh but also attract interest from other teams in need of a seasoned quarterback. The upcoming offseason promises to be intriguing, with Wilson’s future being a central storyline.
In conclusion, Russell Wilson’s impressive turnaround with the Pittsburgh Steelers has positioned him as a valuable asset in the NFL. His future, whether with the Steelers or another team, will depend on his continued performance and the strategic decisions made by Pittsburgh’s management as they balance immediate success with long-term planning.