The Pittsburgh Steelers have made a bold move by naming Russell Wilson as their starting quarterback for the upcoming NFL season. This decision marks a significant new chapter for Wilson, who is entering his 13th season in the league. Wilson, known for his resilience and skill, will be tested as he leads the Steelers, with their season kicking off against the Falcons in Week 1.
Wilson's career has been nothing short of remarkable, yet grueling. He has been sacked an average of 43.9 times per year, culminating in a staggering total of 527 sacks over his career. This places him close to some esteemed company; Tom Brady holds the official record with 565 sacks, while Fran Tarkenton's unofficial record stands at 570 sacks. Wilson is projected to reach an approximate total of 570.9 sacks by the end of the 2024 season, which could see him setting a new benchmark for durability—and perhaps pain tolerance—in the NFL.
"I never had it to keep me going," Wilson states, referring to whether doubt drives him. "I've never been -- I don't know why --- I've just never been worried about what other people think." This mindset appears to have served him well as he prepares to lead a new team, unfazed by the opinions of others and focusing on the job ahead.
A Rocky Path
Wilson's journey has seen him suffer defeats at the hands of 29 different NFL teams. This season, should he lose to both the Cleveland Browns and the Philadelphia Eagles, he will have experienced losses to 31 different teams, a feat shared by few. The Steelers will face the Browns in Week 12 and Week 14, and then the Eagles in Week 15, providing ample opportunity for Wilson to either defy or contribute to this statistic.
As it stands, ten quarterbacks have lost to 30 different teams during their careers. Among active players, Derek Carr has also lost to 30 different teams, with only the Raiders and the Panthers eluding him. Carr faces these two teams in Week 1 and Week 9 respectively. Additionally, veteran quarterback Joe Flacco, now a backup with the Colts, has seen losses to 30 different teams, with the lone exception being the Lions. He will have a chance to complete the set in Week 12 when the Colts take on the Lions.
A New Chapter in Pittsburgh
The Steelers' gamble with Wilson could be a defining moment for both the player and the franchise. Should Wilson falter, Justin Fields is a potential contender for the starting quarterback position. However, Wilson's focus remains firm. "I think ultimately I focus on, as I mentioned to you guys -- obviously my faith means everything to me. God chose me for this, and He chose me to play this game," he explains. "I'm one of 32 men in the world that get to do what I do, get to play this game every day."
Wilson's perspective is a reminder of the broader picture, one that extends beyond the statistics and the records. His unwavering belief in his abilities and his purpose is likely the driving force behind his sustained performance. Whether this belief will translate into success on the field for the Steelers remains to be seen. The upcoming season promises to be a test of Wilson's endurance, skill, and perhaps most importantly, his unyielding spirit.