Russell Wilson has been named the starting quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers as they head into the upcoming NFL season. With this announcement, Wilson embarks on his 13th year in the league, a career that has been marked by significant milestones and challenges alike.
A notable aspect of Wilson’s career has been his durability and resilience, evidenced by an average of 43.9 sacks per season — a figure that underscores the physical demands placed on him. Over the years, Wilson has endured a staggering 527 sacks, inching closer to Tom Brady's official record of 565 sacks. By the end of the 2024 season, projections suggest Wilson will surpass this mark, potentially reaching 570.9 sacks. Interestingly, Fran Tarkenton holds an unofficial record of 570 sacks, a benchmark Wilson is likely to exceed.
Within the league, quarterbacks who come close to Wilson's total include Tom Brady with 565 sacks, Ben Roethlisberger at 554, and Aaron Rodgers trailing at 531. This cluster of data underscores the league’s evolving dynamics and the intense physical toll exacted on its leading players.
Wilson's tenure across various teams has also seen its share of losses. Remarkably, he has suffered defeats at the hands of 29 different NFL teams. Should Wilson face losses to the Cleveland Browns and the Philadelphia Eagles this season, he will have experienced defeats against 31 different franchises. This rare distinction puts him in the company of ten quarterbacks who have lost to 30 different teams, with notable mentions being Derek Carr and Joe Flacco, who have both reached this threshold.
Derek Carr, who is still an active player, has only the Raiders and the Panthers left unbeaten against him. The Saints, Carr’s current team, will take on these two adversaries in Week 1 and Week 9, respectively. Joe Flacco, now serving as a backup with the Colts, has managed to avoid a loss to the Lions thus far—a feat that will be tested in Week 12.
Wilson’s journey with the Steelers begins in earnest in Week 1 with a matchup against the Falcons. This marks the dawn of a new chapter for both the player and the franchise, setting the stage for a season filled with potential and opportunity.
Yet, the pressures of maintaining a starting position loom large. Waiting in the wings is Justin Fields, a potential contender for the quarterback role if Wilson should falter. This dynamic adds an extra layer of intrigue to the Steelers' season, fueled by competition and the pursuit of excellence.
Speaking about his approach and mindset, Wilson articulates a stoic perspective. "I never had it to keep me going," he states, addressing whether doubts drive him. "I've never been -- I don't know why -- I've just never been worried about what other people think." This sentiment reflects a focused dedication to his craft and a relentless pursuit of success.
Wilson further elaborates, "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." His words illuminate the profound sense of purpose and privilege he associates with his role, underlining a career that has been both tested and tempered by the rigors of professional football.
As the Steelers gear up for their forthcoming battles, the narrative of Wilson’s career continues to evolve, marked by records, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to the game. The journey ahead will undoubtedly add new chapters to his storied legacy, as both player and team strive for excellence in the ever-competitive landscape of the NFL.