The Pittsburgh Steelers have decided to place their faith in veteran quarterback Russell Wilson as the starter for the upcoming NFL season. Wilson, now entering his 13th season, brings a wealth of experience and tenacity to the Steelers' roster, a team seeking a fresh start and revitalization.
Wilson's Staggering Career Stats
Russell Wilson's career in the NFL has been characterized by both resilience and relentless durability. Over his 12-season career, Wilson has been subjected to tremendous physical challenges, enduring an average of 43.9 sacks per year. This culminates in a staggering total of 527 career sacks, just shy of breaking the official record held by Tom Brady at 565 sacks. Moreover, Wilson is close to surpassing the unofficial record of Fran Tarkenton, who sits at 570 sacks. Projections indicate that Wilson may accumulate around 570.9 sacks by the end of the 2024 season, a testament to the relentless pass rushes he has faced.
The only quarterbacks that rival Wilson's sack total include Tom Brady (565), Ben Roethlisberger (554), and Aaron Rodgers (531). These statistics paint a picture of just how battle-hardened Wilson has become over the years.
The Challenge Ahead
The Steelers' upcoming schedule provides Wilson with both opportunities and potential setbacks. He has suffered defeats at the hands of 29 different NFL teams. Should the Steelers falter against the Cleveland Browns and the Philadelphia Eagles this season, Wilson will have notched losses against 31 different teams. The matchups against the Browns are set for Week 12 and Week 14, with the Eagles scheduled for Week 15.
Historically, ten quarterbacks have experienced losses to 30 or more teams. Among the active players, Derek Carr has faced defeat against 30 different teams, avoiding losses only to the Raiders and the Panthers. Carr’s Saints will clash with the Raiders in Week 1 and the Panthers in Week 9. As for Joe Flacco, currently a backup with the Colts, he has also lost to 30 different teams but has never lost a game to the Lions, a figure that could change during their Week 12 encounter.
A New Chapter with the Steelers
Wilson's journey with the Steelers commences in Week 1 against the Falcons, setting the stage for what could be a transformative season. The Steelers have a contingency plan in place with Justin Fields, ready to step into the starting quarterback position if Wilson does not perform as expected.
Despite the pressures and high stakes, Wilson remains unshaken by external opinions. "I never had it to keep me going," Wilson shared, reflecting on whether he uses doubt as motivation. "I've never been -- I don't know why --- I've just never been worried about what other people think." This mindset exemplifies his focus and mental fortitude, qualities that have certainly contributed to his long-standing career in one of the most pressurized positions in sports.
Wilson also credits his faith as a significant source of strength and motivation. "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," he explained. "I'm one of 32 men in the world that get to do what I do, get to play this game every day." His sense of purpose and gratitude for his role as an NFL quarterback fuels his commitment and drive.
As the Steelers brace themselves for the challenges of the new season, all eyes will be on Russell Wilson to see if he can navigate the team through the turbulence and emerge victorious. With his veteran experience and resilient spirit, Wilson stands prepared to embrace and conquer the challenges that lie ahead.