Russell Wilson to Lead Steelers in New NFL Chapter
Russell Wilson, a seasoned quarterback entering his 13th NFL season, has been appointed as the starter for the Pittsburgh Steelers in the upcoming season. This decision marks a new era for the Steelers, as they prepare to kick off their campaign in Week 1 against the Atlanta Falcons.
Wilson’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Over the course of his career, he has been sacked a staggering 527 times, averaging 43.9 times per season. This places him in the upper echelon of quarterbacks who have faced relentless defensive pressure. Historically, only Tom Brady, with 565 sacks, and legends like Fran Tarkenton, who holds an unofficial record of 570 sacks, have been sacked more frequently.
Projections indicate that Wilson could surpass both Brady and Tarkenton's sack records by the end of the 2024 season, reaching approximately 570.9 sacks. This projection underscores the intense challenges and physical tolls faced by quarterbacks over extended careers.
"I never had it to keep me going," Wilson shared, reflecting on whether doubt fuels his drive. "I've never been – I don't know why – I've just never been worried about what other people think." His focus has always been inward, driven by faith and a sense of purpose. "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," Wilson explained. "I'm one of 32 men in the world that get to do what I do, get to play this game every day."
Wilson’s resilience isn't just about surviving on-field sacks. It's also about his determined mindset and unyielding faith, which have propelled him to this pinnacle despite the odds and physical challenges. His tenure with the Steelers is expected to test and showcase these qualities further.
Challenges Ahead for Wilson and the Steelers
Wilson's resilience will be further tested this season as he faces strong competition. Notably, he has suffered defeats at the hands of 29 different NFL teams throughout his career. Should the Steelers lose their matches against the Cleveland Browns and the Philadelphia Eagles this season, he will join the ranks of quarterbacks who have lost to 31 different teams. The Steelers will have key matchups against the Browns in Week 12 and Week 14, and against the Eagles in Week 15.
Among quarterbacks who have endured losses to 30 different teams, ten have reached this particular milestone. Among active players, Derek Carr has faced defeat from 30 teams, only the Raiders and Panthers remain unconquered. Carr’s New Orleans Saints squad will confront these teams in Week 1 and Week 9, respectively.
Joe Flacco, now a backup with the Indianapolis Colts, also shares this statistic, having lost to 30 different NFL teams. The sole exception in his case is the Detroit Lions, a team the Colts will meet in Week 12.
Potential Contenders and Future Prospects
The Steelers’ gamble on Wilson isn’t without contingency plans. Justin Fields is seen as a potential successor should Wilson face any setbacks or falter during the season. Fields’ presence looms as a strong contender, ready to step up if needed, ensuring that the Steelers have options to adapt to varying situations.
As the new NFL season approaches, all eyes will be on Russell Wilson and the Pittsburgh Steelers. Will they triumph under the experienced quarterback’s leadership, or will new challenges and records shape Wilson’s career further? The sports world awaits with bated breath as Week 1 promises the beginning of a compelling and action-packed journey.