Russell Wilson Steps into a New Role with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Eyeing Landmark Record
Russell Wilson, the prolific quarterback known for his resilience and tenacity, is set to begin a new chapter in his storied NFL career as the starter for the Pittsburgh Steelers in the upcoming season. Wilson, who is entering his 13th NFL season, brings with him a wealth of experience and a determination that seems unshakable.
"I never had it to keep me going," Wilson remarked, reflecting on whether doubt drives him. "I've never been -- I don't know why --- I've just never been worried about what other people think."
Wilson’s career has been marked by both stellar performances and tremendous physical challenges. Averaging 43.9 sacks per season and amassing a total of 527 sacks over his career, Wilson has shown an extraordinary ability to absorb hits and keep moving forward. This season, he is projected to surpass an extraordinary milestone of 570.9 sacks by the end of the 2024 season, positioning him to overtake Tom Brady's official record of 565 sacks. Additionally, Wilson is closing in on Fran Tarkenton's unofficial mark of 570 sacks, further cementing his legacy in the annals of NFL history.
Wilson's durability and performance have placed him among the top quarterbacks in terms of total sacks, rivaling the likes of Brady (565), Ben Roethlisberger (554), and Aaron Rodgers (531). These comparisons underscore Wilson’s exceptional endurance and the physical toll of remaining at the elite level of professional football for over a decade.
Beyond sacks, Wilson's career has also been notable for the wide array of teams he's faced defeat against. Having lost to 29 different NFL teams, Wilson stands on the cusp of another unique record. Should he lose to both the Cleveland Browns and the Philadelphia Eagles this season, that number will climb to 31, a distinction matched only by a handful of quarterbacks.
The Steelers' schedule presents these opportunities, with matchups against the Browns in Weeks 12 and 14, and the Eagles in Week 15. Currently, ten quarterbacks share the record of losing to 30 different teams, including active QB Derek Carr, who has only been undefeated by the Raiders and the Panthers. With the Saints facing these two teams in Weeks 1 and 9 respectively, Carr's record could change this season. Another name on this list is Joe Flacco, now serving as a backup with the Colts, who will aim to keep his record intact by avoiding defeat to the Lions in Week 12.
Wilson, however, remains unfazed by these numbers, focusing instead on his faith and purpose. "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 explained. "I'm one of 32 men in the world that get to do what I do, get to play this game every day."
The Steelers will open their season against the Atlanta Falcons in Week 1, marking Wilson's debut in Pittsburgh colors. As the team steps into this new era, all eyes will be on Wilson to gauge how he handles the pressure and whether he can lead the storied franchise to success. Should he falter, the Steelers have a backup plan in Justin Fields, a promising contender for the starting quarterback position.
This season promises to be one of defining moments and potential records for Russell Wilson. Whether it’s surpassing Brady’s sack record, facing new team defeats, or simply leading his new team to victory, every game will be scrutinized. No matter where the numbers fall, Wilson’s legacy and his impact on the game are undeniable. The Steelers, and their fans, are hoping this seasoned veteran still has plenty of magic left in his arm.