Russell Wilson: Steeling Himself for Another Season
The Pittsburgh Steelers have made a significant decision for their upcoming NFL season by naming Russell Wilson as their starting quarterback. As Wilson enters his 13th season in the NFL, he carries with him a wealth of experience, resilience, and a history marked by remarkable statistical achievements and notable challenges.
Wilson's career has been a fascinating journey. Notably, he has faced an extraordinary amount of pressure in the pocket, being sacked an average of 43.9 times per season. Over his career, this has translated to a staggering total of 527 sacks. These numbers place him in proximity to some of the most sacked quarterbacks in NFL history, including Tom Brady with 565 sacks and the unofficial record holder Fran Tarkenton with 570 sacks. If Wilson's current pace continues, he is projected to surpass both, potentially reaching around 570.9 sacks by the end of the 2024 season.
Despite the physical toll, Wilson's outlook on the game remains undeterred. “I never had it to keep me going,” he states regarding whether doubt drives him. “I've never been — I don’t know why — I’ve just never been worried about what other people think.” His mindset is heavily influenced by his faith, a cornerstone of his approach to the sport. “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,” Wilson 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 potential for making history extends beyond just sacks. During his NFL tenure, he has suffered defeats at the hands of 29 different teams. This season, the Steelers' schedule includes matchups with the Cleveland Browns and the Philadelphia Eagles in Weeks 12, 14, and 15. Should the Steelers lose these games, Wilson would have losses to 31 different NFL teams, edging closer to an ignominious milestone shared by ten other quarterbacks who have lost to 30 different teams.
Among active quarterbacks, Derek Carr has also lost to 30 different teams, with only the Raiders and the Panthers escaping that fate so far. Carr’s team, the Saints, will play against the Raiders in Week 1 and the Panthers in Week 9. Joe Flacco, currently a backup with the Colts, joins this group with losses to 30 different teams, except the Lions, whom the Colts will face in Week 12.
The upcoming season represents a new chapter for the Steelers and Wilson alike. The team's first challenge will come in Week 1 against the Falcons. If Wilson faces difficulties early in the season, Justin Fields is a potential contender for the starting quarterback role, adding another layer of intrigue to Pittsburgh's quarterback situation.
Wilson's story is one of perseverance and faith, navigating the highs and lows that come with a career in professional football. As he prepares to lead the Steelers, his journey will undoubtedly be watched closely by fans and analysts, eager to see how he adds to his already impressive legacy. Whether battling on the field or standing strong against criticism, Wilson's approach is clear: he’s focused on his faith and the opportunity he has been given, undistracted by the noise around him.