Despite Travis Kelce’s Steelers’ Praise, Russell Wilson’s Broncos Downfall Raises Questions on Pittsburgh’s Future

Two years ago, the Denver Broncos and Seattle Seahawks made a huge trade. Denver got Pro Bowl QB Russell Wilson, expecting him to be their star player for many years. In Seattle, Wilson was a great for ten years, winning a Super Bowl and making many playoff runs. However, things didn’t go well in Denver.

As Russell joined Pittsburgh Steelers after leaving Denver, it raises many questions about his future with the Steelers. People have criticized him for his inconsistent ball distribution to tight ends and his struggles under pressure. But the Chiefs TE recently showed confidence in Wilson and praised him on the New Heights podcast.

Travis Kelce shed light on Wilson’s potential impact on the Steelers

Jason Kelce said, “Is AFC North most competitive division football? I say yes, especially with Burrow coming back healthy. I thought it was the most competitive last year.” Travis replied, “You throw danger, Russ, on the uh on the Steelers, and all of a sudden you know they’re they’re very intriguing football football team.” This comment highlights Travis’s belief that Wilson’s presence could significantly improve the Steelers. His enthusiasm stems from Wilson’s history of making big plays and his experience as a veteran quarterback. 

Despite Russell’s struggles, he still managed to throw for over 3,000 yards with 26 touchdowns and just eight interceptions in 2023. While not his best, it shows he still has potential. Russell’s ability to throw deep passes is one of his strengths. He can make big plays, which is good for Steelers receivers like George Pickens. 

But during his time with the Broncos in 2022, Wilson struggled a lot. He was supposed to thrive with talented teammates like Javonte Williams, Jerry Jeudy, and Courtland Sutton, but it didn’t happen.

Russell’s Struggle in Denver

The Broncos’ then coach, Nathaniel Hackett, couldn’t make the offense work, and Wilson’s performance was poor. He threw for only 3,524 yards, with just 16 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. His QBR (Quarterback Rating) was 38.7, the worst of his career. The team fired Hackett before the season ended.

In 2023, Sean Payton, a successful coach from the New Orleans Saints, took over. Russell and Payton didn’t get along, so the team eventually benched the 35-year-old for the last two games. Kevin Patra from NFL.com said, “Wilson wasn’t the sole reason Denver’s offense was a rickety operation last season, but he never did seem comfortable under Sean Payton. While he performed better in 2023 than in the disastrous 2022 campaign, Wilson still played skittish, missed throws, and invited pressure.”

On the downside, if Russell continues to struggle with his pocket presence and decision-making, it could be a threat to the team. The Steelers might also consider other options like Justin Fields. Motivated by Travis Kelce, Russell will be hoping to make a run for the playoff at the very least.