Patrick Queen’s decision to join AFC North rivals Pittsburgh Steelers might have ruffled the Ravens nation. But, his new Steelers teammate Russell Wilson remains excited as Queen joins the Steelers for $13.84 million in guaranteed money. Sharing an Instagram story on his official account, Wilson wished the new Steelers LB on his birthday, captioned, “Happy bday,” tagging Patrick Queen as the photo consisted of the Steelers HC Mike Tomlin, Russell Wilson, and Patrick Queen sharing a moment.

Well, Queen couldn’t have hoped for a better birthday celebration as he refused to join other teams that offered $17 million per year. But instead, took his chance to join the Steelers for a difference of $5 million. Speaking about his decision to choose the Steelers, Queen said, “I’m looking at it like, I’ve never been on a losing team before, and then I also don’t want to be a part of anything being rebuilt because I’m trying to win now.” Looks like Queen is more than happy to take a pay cut and try to increase his chances of winning his first trophy.

Talking about happiness, Queen might not be the only player looking to prove his worth upon joining the Steelers. Wilson, at the twilight of his NFL career, is hoping for the same after coming off a disastrous tenure playing for the Broncos. 

Can Russell Wilson rejuvenate his career playing for the Steelers?

Upon joining the Steelers for a contract worth $1.2 million, Russ stated, “I feel the fountain of youth. “I feel revived in every way-mentally, emotionally, spiritually. I feel confident.” As Russ mentions confidence, he never had one from the Broncos HC Sean Payton. Moreover, his biggest problem at the Mile High City was he couldn’t become the ‘guy’ Payton would have preferred. At times, Wilson’s offensive style of play collided with Payton’s game plan as the veteran was eventually sidelined for the last two games of the 2023 NFL season.

However, at the Steelers, Wilson might have Mike Tomlin and Arthur Smith, who believe in the 35-year-old abilities. After signing Wilson, Tomlin expressed, “I think probably the most attractive component of his profile to me is his quest for greatness, man. His chase for legacy. This is not a guy who is hungry, meaning that he can be satisfied. This is a guy that is driven.” Well, Tomlin might not be wrong because after a horror first season playing for the Broncos. Wilson recorded 26 touchdown passes and 8 interceptions, but his record of 11-19 as a starter was enough to pull the plug.

Smith redefined the career of Ryan Tannehill during his time as an OC of the Tennessee Titans, where he got the QB to win his only Pro Bowler award to this date. However, it remains to be seen whether Smith can yet again show his magic by turning around Wilson’s declining career. But that’s not all, as Russell will also have Pro Bowler Najee Harris, who has had a sensational last few years. With him completing more than 1,000 yards consecutively and a breakout star in Jaylen Warren, the Steelers have plenty of firepower in the backfield.

Going out wide, Wilson will be supported by George Pickens, Pat Freiermuth, and Roman Wilson. But can Wilson prove his worth to a Steelers side that has skilled players at every position? Or will it be too much for the veteran whose career is almost over?