Russell Wilson Signs With Pittsburgh Steelers on a Team Friendly 1-Year Deal

Russell Wilson finally finds his new home! Just a week ago, the Denver Broncos announced Wilson’s release from the team. Since then, many teams had been speculated as the quarterback’s possible next side.

From teams like Atlanta Falcons, Chicago Bears, Las Vegas Raiders, to Miami Dolphins, Minnesota Vikings, New England Patriots, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, all were lined up for the sensational quarterback. However, now he finally got his new place, worth $1.2 million, with the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday night.

Russell Wilson’s one-year deal!

Sharing the news with the NFL world, happy Russell Wilson dropped a teaser video of Steelers and their faithful cheering at Acrisure Stadium, on his official X account. The athlete who played 12 seasons in the NFL career also wrote, “Year 13. Grateful. @Steelers.”

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Wilson signed a “team-friendly, one-year” contract, worth $1.2 million, with the Steelers. However, his former team, the Broncos, will still be on the hook for $38 million in 2024.

As per the reports, Wilson spent six hours with Steelers management and the team has decided to pay him only $1.2 million. Despite being released by the Broncos, they are obligated to pay him $38 million for the 2024 NFL season. The $1 million Wilson is expected to receive from the Steelers will be subtracted from the total owned by Denver. So, in 2024, Wilson will receive a substantial $38 million from the Broncos and just $1.2 million from the Steelers, making his total earnings from the deal $39 million.

Although his pay with the Steelers may seem low, it’s important to note that Wilson has earned over $260 million in his NFL career, ranking fourth in NFL history in terms of earnings. So, his contract isn’t that low.

Wilson now has the chance to start over in 2024 with the Steelers, potentially sidelining Kenny Pickett. But why did the Steelers pick the Seahawks star?

Do the Steelers believe in Russell Wilson?

Even though Russell Wilson had a challenging time with Denver, his affordability made him an attractive option for the Steelers. Coach Mike Tomlin expressed commitment to Kenny Pickett but also sought competition, leaving the door open for QB Mason Rudolph. Wilson, despite potential competition, was likely seen as the favored starter. The Steelers moved swiftly to pursue him, indicating they see him as more than just a backup quarterback. So, does that mean it’s over for Pickett?

Pickett may face challenges for the starting role, especially after Wilson’s contract that runs through at least 2025. Hence, it totally depends on Pickett’s health progress, as his future is under looming clouds till then. Furthermore, if Wilson performs well with his new team, the Steelers might get the chance to put Pickett as a backup even after his complete recovery, or they might trade him to another team.

Let’s see what’s in store for Pittsburgh!

Read more: Released From Broncos, Russell Wilson Would Reportedly Flourish at Pittsburgh Steelers ‘Facing Joe Burrow Lamar Jackson &Co.’