In 2012, when Russell Wilson first joined the NFL, he was met with open arms. He had an outstanding college football history and several records, including a single-season FBS record for passing efficiency with 191.8. He was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks and played his best in his debut season, mirroring Peyton Manning’s record for most TD passes thrown by a rookie at 26. He was named NFL Rookie of the Year that season.
Russell Wilson played till 2021, during which he won a Super Bowl. But the good luck charm didn’t favor him when he joined the Denver Broncos in 2022. After a series of disheartening records, the Broncos have finally let him go. This decision has led Broncos veterans, including Mark Schlereth, to put forth their opinions.
Mark Schlereth unmasks his thoughts on Russell Wilson leaving the Broncos
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Former Broncos guard Mark Schlereth couldn’t hide his excitement over Russell Wilson being cut loose by the Broncos, as is displayed in his X account. In his discussion on the Stinkin’ Truth podcast, the 3x SB champion drops his revelation on why the 35-year-old QB leaving Denver is a cause of celebration. He stated, “Russell Wilson is garbage. As a player… You cannot win championship, you cannot win consistently with Russell Wilson playing quarterback.”
The Stinkin Truth: https://t.co/vootN4XZsQ pic.twitter.com/7PVLEQ1tkI
— Mark Schlereth (@markschlereth) March 8, 2024
Per a report by NBCSports.com, Wilson was part of the trade-and-salary deal in 2022, where the Broncos signed him to a $245 million extension over five years. However, his performance didn’t coincide with the Broncos’ vision, as the team went 13-21 under Wilson. Last season, he completed 66.4% of his passes for 3,070 yards and 26 TDs with eight interceptions. After being cut off, he stated, “Broncos Country, Thank You!” He also said, “Tough times don’t last, but tough people do. God’s got me. I’m excited for what’s next.” And it looks like Wilson is already carving his next path in Pittsburgh.
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Russell Wilson’s potential Steelers joining
Rumors have it that Russell Wilson may join the Pittsburgh Steelers. According to reports, his meeting with Steelers OC Arthur Smith went “for hours,” and he appeared happy during the interview. After being let loose by the Broncos, Wilson brings a lucrative offer to the Steelers with five years left on the extension in Denver.
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Cutting him off results in a $85 million hit in dead cap money over two years. So, essentially, the Broncos owe him $39 million in 2024. If the Steelers sign him, his salary will be deducted from the outstanding balance. But he also has a choice to opt for a veteran’s minimum deal, set at $915,000 for the 2024 season. It remains suspenseful as to what destiny awaits Wilson in the next chapter of his football career. Hopefully, he’ll reclaim his former glory if the Steelers take him in.