The Pittsburgh Steelers have made a notable move this NFL season by naming Russell Wilson as their starting quarterback. This decision comes as Wilson enters his 13th season in the league, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a significant career record.
Wilson's Career and Challenges
Wilson's career has been marked by both achievements and challenges. Averaging 43.9 sacks per year, he has accumulated a staggering total of 527 sacks. This places him in close contention with NFL legends like Tom Brady and Fran Tarkenton. Brady holds the official record with 565 sacks, while Tarkenton's unofficial record stands at 570 sacks. By the end of the 2024 season, Wilson is projected to reach approximately 570.9 sacks, potentially setting a new benchmark in the NFL.
Despite these daunting numbers, Wilson remains undeterred. "I never had it to keep me going," he says about whether doubt ever drove him. "I've never been -- I don't know why --- I've just never been worried about what other people think."
Another interesting aspect of Wilson's career is his performance against different NFL teams. He has suffered defeats at the hands of 29 different teams. This season, if the Steelers lose to both the Cleveland Browns and the Philadelphia Eagles, Wilson will have losses to 31 different teams. Such a record is rare, with only ten quarterbacks having lost to 30 different teams, including active quarterback Derek Carr and backup quarterback Joe Flacco.
Steelers' Upcoming Matches
As the Steelers enter this new chapter with Wilson, their schedule is set to test his mettle. They face the Browns in Week 12 and Week 14, and the Eagles in Week 15. The team's journey begins in Week 1 against the Falcons. This start could be crucial for Wilson, as he needs to establish his leadership and prowess early in the season.
In these moments of trial, Wilson's faith plays a pivotal role. "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 explains. "I'm one of 32 men in the world that get to do what I do, get to play this game every day."
Possible Contingencies
While Wilson is the designated starter, the Steelers have made it clear that they have alternatives up their sleeve. If Wilson falters, Justin Fields is seen as a potential contender for the starting quarterback position. This adds another layer of complexity and competition, keeping everyone on their toes.
In comparison, Derek Carr's situation is intriguingly parallel. Carr has lost to 30 different teams, with the Raiders and Panthers being the only teams he has not lost to. The Saints, his current team, will face the Raiders in Week 1 and the Panthers in Week 9, potentially altering his unique record.
Joe Flacco's Record
Joe Flacco, a veteran quarterback now serving as a backup with the Colts, finds himself in a similar predicament. Having lost to 30 different teams, he has yet to face defeat against the Detroit Lions. The Colts will play the Lions in Week 12, a game that could add another significant chapter to Flacco's career.
With Wilson at the helm, the Pittsburgh Steelers are poised to tackle the season with renewed vigor and a sense of purpose. His experience, combined with the strategic planning of the Steelers' management, could potentially lead to a successful campaign. Yet, the challenges ahead are formidable, and the outcomes remain uncertain. As the weeks unfold, Wilson's performance and the team's resilience will be closely watched, adding another exciting narrative to the storied history of the NFL.