The Steelers intend to re-sign Russell Wilson to a lengthier contract after the 2024 season, according to reports.
Even with Justin Fields on the roster, the Pittsburgh Steelers plan to keep Russell Wilson as their starting quarterback in 2024 and beyond. The Steelers and Wilson intend to reach an agreement on a lengthier contract after the 2024 season, according to the Post-Gazette, shortly after the Steelers acquired Fields in a trade with Chicago.
Wilson agreed to a one-year veteran minimum pay of $1.21 million for the 2023 season. The Broncos, who formally fired Wilson last week, will pay him $39 million not to have him on their roster this season.
The Steelers’ quarterback strategy is for Wilson to start and Fields to backup him. The arrival of Fields provides Pittsburgh with an option if Wilson does not pan out. If Wilson does well this season, Fields will most likely become a free agent next season. He might potentially decide to stay in Pittsburgh as Wilson’s backup.
Wilson, a nine-time Pro Bowler with a career that borders on Hall of Fame status, is definitely a Pittsburgh fan favorite. Wilson struggled in his first season in Denver (2022), but rebounded last season before being benched after 15 games. His 26 touchdown passes last season were twice as many as Pittsburgh’s three starting quarterbacks combined in 2023.
During his first official day as a Steeler, Wilson hinted at staying in Pittsburgh for the long term. Wilson, a Super Bowl champion with the Seattle Seahawks, stated that his major goal in Pittsburgh is to add at least one Vince Lombardi Trophy to the Steelers’ collection.
“I want to be a part of the Pittsburgh community for a long time, and I’m very thrilled about
Wilson’s 2024 salary provides the Steelers plenty of wriggle flexibility. Pittsburgh will most certainly continue to add to its roster in free agency after signing Fields, Wilson, linebacker Patrick Queen, safety DeShon Elliott, and receiver Van Jefferson. The Steelers are still looking for a receiver after releasing Diontae Johnson and Allen Robinson II.
“When you think about it, to be released but then to come here and to know that it’s not going to cost very much,” Wilson went on to say. “The nicest part is that we get to add more guys, accomplish more things, and ultimately win. “Go win now; that is our focus.”
