Russell Wilson has been named the starting quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers for the upcoming NFL season. This decision ushers in a new chapter for both Wilson and the Steelers as they look to capitalize on his wealth of experience and on-field prowess. Entering his 13th NFL season, Wilson has an impressive resume, though it's marked by a significant number of sacks.
Over his career, Wilson has been sacked an average of 43.9 times per season, culminating in a total of 527 sacks. This places him on the verge of surpassing some notable records by the end of the 2024 season. Currently, Tom Brady holds the official record with 565 sacks, but projections suggest Wilson is likely to reach around 570.9 sacks, which would surpass the unofficial record held by Fran Tarkenton at 570 sacks. This statistic brings Wilson into a rarefied space occupied by only a handful of quarterbacks, including Brady, Ben Roethlisberger (554 sacks), and Aaron Rodgers (531 sacks).
Despite the challenges he's faced on the field, Wilson's mindset remains unfazed by external perceptions. "I never had it to keep me going," Wilson stated when asked if doubt was a motivating factor for him. "I've never been -- I don't know why -- I've just never been worried about what other people think." This attitude encapsulates his confidence and focus, driven primarily by his faith and God's plan for him. "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. 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 career is also marked by his encounters with various NFL teams. He has suffered defeats to 29 different teams, and if the Steelers lose to both the Cleveland Browns and the Philadelphia Eagles this season, he will have losses to 31 different teams. The Steelers are set to face the Browns in Week 12 and Week 14, and the Eagles in Week 15, setting the stage for potentially historic matchups. Losing to 30 different teams is not a common accolade, with only ten quarterbacks achieving this dubious milestone. Among active players, Derek Carr has also lost to 30 different teams, with only the Raiders and Panthers eluding him. Carr's Saints will face the Raiders in Week 1 and the Panthers in Week 9, giving him a chance to add to his tally. Joe Flacco, now a backup with the Colts, has similarly lost to 30 different teams but awaits a contest against the Lions in Week 12 to possibly extend his record.
As the Steelers gear up for their season opener against the Falcons in Week 1, Wilson's slot as the starting quarterback signifies a new beginning for the franchise. However, Justin Fields remains a potential contender for the starting position should Wilson falter. Thus, the pressure mounts not only from the opposition but within the team as well, a dynamic that could shape the Steelers' season ahead.
Wilson's journey in Pittsburgh is set against the backdrop of his illustrious career, a career that, while beset by numerous sacks, also showcases his resilience and enduring talent. Whether he breaks records or faces new defeats, Wilson's time with the Steelers will undoubtedly be a critical chapter in his storied NFL saga.