The Pittsburgh Steelers sure have made it seem like Russell Wilson is going to be more than a one-year rental in the Steel City. Wilson, who turns 36 in November, has sparked plenty of speculation about how much longer he can play at a high level. Though he missed six games in the 2024 season due to a calf injury, Wilson’s track record of durability stands out in the NFL. Throughout his career, he’s been one of the healthiest quarterbacks, rarely missing time, and he doesn’t appear to be winding down just yet.
Steelers’ Russell Wilson talks to Justin Fields before a game.
The Steelers’ quarterback situation has led to a split within the fan base, with some believing Justin Fields should be the team’s future. Fields, known for his raw talent and youth, could offer Pittsburgh a long-term solution if developed properly. However, insiders hint that the Steelers are leaning toward keeping Wilson beyond 2024, signaling their willingness to invest heavily in his experience and leadership, despite the risks associated with his age. Wilson’s resume and reputation as a fierce competitor have made him an intriguing option to lead the Steelers in the coming seasons.
In an interview with ESPN’s Hannah Storm on Thursday, Wilson addressed his longevity directly, making a statement that caught many fans’ attention. When asked how long he plans to play, Wilson was clear: he’s not thinking about retirement anytime soon. Confident in his ability to remain effective well into his 30s, Wilson sees himself as far from finished, setting up an intriguing storyline as the Steelers consider his role in their future plans.
“I definitely wanna play another five to seven more years,” Wilson said. “I think that has always been my goal. I have been very clear about that since the beginning. I think that has always been my mindset, you know the longevity of the game.”
Questions swirled about what Wilson could bring to Pittsburgh after managing only 11 wins over two seasons with the Denver Broncos. However, Mike Tomlin made a bold call, benching Fields after a 4-2 start to give Wilson the reins.
Steelers’ Russell Wilson stands next to Head Coach Mike Tomlin during a game.
In just three games, Wilson has validated Tomlin’s decision, making the head coach look like a genius.
“I feel great, I feel young,” Wilson said. “I feel like I can still move around out there and make all the decisions and all the throws. I can throw the ball where I need to throw it, so my focus here is winning this week and then hopefully winning the next one and the one after that. We get to the end of the season and hopefully we are holding something that we will forever remember.”
Steelers’ Russell Wilson Isn’t Done Winning Super Bowls
Wilson built an impressive career with the Seattle Seahawks, where he became a Super Bowl champion and one of the league’s most respected quarterbacks. Now, he’s focused on adding a few more championships to his resume.
“I had a goal of winning a couple more [Super Bowls] and that is why I came here.”
Wilson is in an ideal spot with the Steelers. Currently, Pittsburgh is paying him only the veteran minimum, thanks to the Broncos covering most of his 2024 salary. This cost-effective arrangement has sparked predictions that Wilson could land a significant contract extension with the Steelers after this season.
Wilson seems to have found a true home in the Steel City, and he may be open to a team-friendly deal to stay. His move to Denver, with its lack of stability, likely emphasized the value of Pittsburgh’s strong foundation under Tomlin. He’s surrounded by elite defenders like TJ Watt, Cam Heyward, and Minkah Fitzpatrick, with an offense that’s only getting stronger. It’s a setup that few other teams in the league can offer.
Steelers’ Russell Wilson celebrates after a big win over the Washington Commanders in Week 10.
For Wilson, the Steelers might represent his best shot at more Super Bowl rings, a situation that surpasses what most quarterback-needy teams could provide. It’ll be interesting to see how Pittsburgh navigates the futures of both Wilson and Fields, with high stakes on both sides. It’s exciting to hear that Wilson thinks he can play well into his 40s.