As the Pittsburgh Steelers gear up for the upcoming NFL season, a new chapter begins with Russell Wilson stepping in as their starting quarterback. This move, announced recently, has ignited both excitement and curiosity among fans and analysts alike.
Veteran Experience Joins the Steelers
Wilson, now entering his 13th NFL season, brings a wealth of experience to the Steelers. Over his career, he has faced numerous challenges and accumulated an impressive track record, including being sacked an astonishing 527 times. This places him among an elite group of quarterbacks who have faced relentless pressure throughout their careers.
Comparisons are inevitable. Tom Brady, one of the all-time greats, holds the official record with 565 career sacks. Wilson is projected to surpass this by the end of the 2024 season, with an estimated total of approximately 570.9 sacks. Fran Tarkenton holds an unofficial record with 570 sacks, further highlighting the relentless pressure Wilson has endured.
Other notable quarterbacks close to Wilson's total include Ben Roethlisberger with 554 sacks and Aaron Rodgers with 531. These figures underscore the durability and resilience Wilson has demonstrated throughout his career, attributes that will be invaluable to the Steelers this season.
Challenges Ahead
Wilson's journey has not been without its setbacks. He has suffered defeats at the hands of 29 different NFL teams, a number that could increase if the Steelers falter against the Cleveland Browns and the Philadelphia Eagles this season. The Steelers are set to face the Browns in Weeks 12 and 14, and the Eagles in Week 15. Should they lose these games, Wilson will have experienced losses to an unprecedented 31 different teams.
Currently, ten quarterbacks share the dubious distinction of having lost to 30 different teams, among them Derek Carr and Joe Flacco. Carr, who has never lost to the Raiders or the Panthers, will have the chance to avoid adding to that list when the Saints face the Raiders in Week 1 and the Panthers in Week 9. Meanwhile, Flacco, now a backup with the Colts, has not lost to the Lions yet. The Colts meet the Lions in Week 12, offering Flacco another test.
Wilson's Mindset and Focus
Despite these daunting statistics, Wilson remains unfazed and focused on his mission. "I never had it to keep me going," he says about whether doubt drives him. "I've never been -- I don't know why --- I've just never been worried about what other people think."
Faith plays a central role in Wilson's approach to the game. "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."
The Road Ahead
The Steelers' new era with Wilson kicks off in Week 1 against the Falcons. The team's management and fanbase are hopeful that his seasoned presence will lead to a strong and competitive season. Watching closely will be Justin Fields, a potential contender for the starting quarterback position, should Wilson struggle to meet expectations.
For now, the spotlight is on Wilson as he takes on this new challenge with the Steelers. His experience, resilience, and unwavering faith will be put to the test as he strives to lead the team to success in this highly competitive season.