Russell Wilson has signed a one-year contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers, reports suggest.
Pittsburgh (KDKA) – Russell Wilson is set to sign a one-year contract with the Steelers this week, according to multiple reports.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter first reported late Sunday night that Wilson would sign a team-friendly, one-year contract once his release from the Broncos is official at the start of the NFL’s league year.
The 35-year-old veteran is likely to battle with Kenny Pickett for the starting quarterback position, according to Gerry Dulac of the Post-Gazette.
According to Schefter, Wilson spoke with Head Coach Mike Tomlin and new Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith for more than six hours on Saturday.
Wilson wrote on social media: “Year 13. Grateful” and tagged Steelers with a
Earlier this month, the Broncos confirmed that Wilson will be released after two seasons.
According to the Associated Press, Wilson is anticipated to sign for the veteran’s minimum compensation of $1.21 million per year, with the Broncos covering the rest of his $39 million salary.
Wilson will be able to sign with the Steelers when the NFL’s league year begins on Wednesday at 4 p.m.
The nine-time Pro Bowler has had an up-and-down career since being taken by the Seahawks in the third round of the 2012 NFL Draft out of Wisconsin.
Wilson helped the Seahawks win the Super Bowl against the Denver Broncos in only his second season.
Over the next eight years, Wilson was a key franchise player for the Seahawks, leading Seattle to back-to-back Super Bowl appearances.
In early 2022, Wilson was dealt to Denver in a trade that was followed by a massive contract signing worth $245 million.
After just two seasons in Denver and an 11-9 record as a starter there, the Broncos announced Wilson would be released, making him a free agent while still receiving his salary he was due that was guaranteed.
Now the Pittsburgh Steelers fans said they’re hoping he’s the man to take them to a Super Bowl.
“I hope he brings a championship to Pittsburgh,” said Steelers fan Michael Connor.
“He’s got a great career behind him and if he can bring it here that’s great news for all of us,” Connor said.
It’s creating high hopes for black and gold fans.
Last season, the 35-year-old threw more than 3,000 yards and tossed 26 touchdowns. With this deal, Wilson would get paid here while Denver still pays him $39 million he’s owed for the upcoming season.
“I honestly think for Russ, it’s not about the money. He’s a man of God, he’s a man of prayer. Mike Tomlin, the whole team’s about that. I think that’s honestly beautiful,” said Josiah Vaughn.
Non-Steelers fans have different opinions about the expected deal. Kani Williams said, “Bad trade, bad dude. I wouldn’t do that.”
However, Steelers Coach Mike Tomlin said last year’s starting quarterback back Kenny Pickett would face some competition for his job this year. Now the Steelers are bringing in an established veteran to compete.
“I would say Russ, he’s a vet. Kenny’s been doing trash the last past — what? — two years he’s been here,” said Williams.
“He’s a veteran, he brings a lot to the table. Kenny is young, he can probably learn a lot from Russell in the beginning,” Daniel Grinage said.
The community can’t forget Wilson would also bring his wife, celebrity singer, Ciara.
“Plus, Ciara be one of the biggest stars in Pittsburgh in years,” Grinage said.
It’s a big deal in the making, Steelers fans and Wilson seem committed to so far. Wilson’s contract can’t be signed until Wednesday after 4 p.m., but the Broncos let Wilson make an agreement with the Steelers early on and it looks promising.
