Russell Wilson Pens a Heartwarming Message for His ‘Amazing’ QB Coach of 9 Years on a Special Occasion

Russell Wilson once again proves he is a real friend! The Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback is hard at work ahead of a crucial 2024 season. After two sub-par campaigns compared to his lofty standards, Wilson will be keen on making a triumphant return to the gridiron. Although he is in the middle of a hectic preseason, the former Denver Broncos QB did not forget about his friend’s birthday!

The man in question is Jake Heaps, Wilson’s quarterback coach. Heaps took to his X account and shared a beautiful post on his 33rd birthday. Like a true family man, the former Miami Hurricanes Football alumni thanked his wife and posted pictures with his loved ones to celebrate the special occasion. Being the gem of a person he is, the 35-year-old NFL veteran left a message for his friend and mentor.

“Happy Bday Jake,” wrote Mr. Unlimited. Heaps and Wilson have a long history as they were a part of the Seahawk’s practice squad together in 2016 and 2017. The two developed a strong connection outside football too, as Jake became a head coach and DOP for the Russell Wilson Passing Academy. Later, in 2022, Heaps joined as Wilson’s personal coach when the latter moved to the Broncos. Hence, the NFL veteran is thankful to the “amazing” Jake Heaps and added, “Enjoy 33!” The man of the moment later replied to Wilson’s message and wrote he was “grateful.”

While it is an amazing gesture from someone as high profile as Russell Wilson, this isn’t the first time the Steelers No. 3 expressed love for his friends. In 2023, the Super Bowl winner shared a social media post to mourn his late companion Trevor Moawad, who passed away in September 2021. A grieving Wilson wrote on Instagram, “Miss you everyday Trev! #TheBestIsAhead.” Moawad motivated the former Seahawks star to overcome a mental barrier after the Super Bowl XLIX loss. It looks like he has channeled the same motivation ahead of the 2024 season.

Russell Wilson feels ‘revived’

Russell Wilson is gearing up for a brand new start at the Pittsburgh Steelers. Wilson looks like a man reborn and after the Steelers minicamp, the legend told the reporters that he has found the “fountain of youth.” After two years of misery at Denver, he needed a change of scenery, and joining the Black and the Gold has seemingly done the trick! The former Wisconsin Badgers QB feels ‘revived.’ ‘Emotionally’, ‘spiritually’, and ‘mentally!’

However, Wilson may have to earn his chances next season. Alongside him, the Keystone State also brought in the former Chicago Bears QB Justin Fields to bolster the offensive line. Despite Kenny Pickett’s exit, head coach Mike Tomlin has more balanced and explosive options at his disposal. While Wilson is the most experienced QB at the franchise, Fields is the favorite to be the starting QB come the regular season in September. However, the Ohio native seems unbothered and is excited to pair up with the 25-year-old youngster.

Russell Wilson has 43,653 passing yards and 334 touchdowns in his illustrious career. So there is no doubt about the quality and experience he will bring to the Steelers. Along with his personal QB coach and the birthday boy Jake Heaps, the veteran will certainly keep himself fit and ready to put on a show whenever the opportunity arrives next season.