Steel City’s got a new QB1, and he’s all about that faith, hustle, and gratitude! Russell Wilson ain’t just rolling into Pittsburgh as the Steelers’ new starting QB—he’s stepping into a whole new vibe. Right after being named QB1, he hopped on social media to let the world know just how pumped he was. 

“Blessed & Full of Gratitude. Honored to lead this special group of men,” Wilson posted on X, even quoting Matthew 6:33 to show he’s thinking beyond the gridiron. “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” For Russ, this seems to be more than just throwing touchdowns—it’s a true calling.

Head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed the 35-year-old will start in Week 1 against Atlanta, calling it a tough but positive decision. “It was a difficult decision, but not difficult in a negative way,” Pittsburgh’s HC asserted. “The decision was difficult because of how they’ve conducted themselves, as opposed to the things they fall short in, in terms of capabilities or negative conduct.” And with Wilson’s stats from last season with the Broncos—26 TDs, and just eight picks—you can see why Tomlin’s got high hopes.

The dual-threat QB’s all about gratitude right now. “What a great moment it is,” he said. “This game is such a blessing every time you get to do it. I’m just excited to be a Pittsburgh Steeler.” And when asked about the competition with Justin Fields for that top spot, Wilson kept it real. “Yeah, every day you try to be your best. We’re always competing to be our best,” he added. “You want to elevate the room.”

But don’t sleep on Fields just yet. HC Tomlin hinted he’s got plans for the young gun. “My friend Raheem Morris better be ready for a Justin Fields package,” Tomlin teased. Looks like Fields is going to get his shot, too!

With Russell Wilson’s leadership and Fields’ explosive skills, Pittsburgh’s cooking up something special this season. But analysts are not sure what this could mean for the Steelers’ offense. 

Analysts weigh in on Russell Wilson’s QB1 status 

Russell Wilson’s hold on Steel City’s starting QB spot’s slipping. Louis Riddick’s ringing the alarm, hinting that Wilson’s not as safe as everyone thought. That calf strain of his has kept him out of key training camp sessions, letting Justin Fields step up and shine. Riddick also pointed out how the expectations are shifting fast: “When training camp started, [Mike Tomlin’s] words were, ‘Russ has the pole position’.” Initially, it seemed like Wilson’s job was secure. However, the analyst now believes, “If I’m Russ, I’m sitting there thinking, ‘I’ve got to get my butt on this field quick’.” 

Emmanuel Acho echoed these concerns during a discussion on SPEAK on July 25, stating that the 35-year-old’s absence due to calf tightness has given Fields a chance to shine. “If Russ is hurt, then there it is. This is what’s going to happen. That’s what you have backups for,” Acho explained. He didn’t shy away from pointing out Wilson’s underwhelming performance last year—a 4-11 record, throwing 3,524 yards. That’s about 234 yards per game. Not exactly stellar. 

As the season opener against Atlanta approaches, the pressure’s on for Wilson to make a comeback and prove he’s still the Steelers’ top choice. All eyes will be on how this situation unfolds.