As the Pittsburgh Steelers gear up for the upcoming NFL season, a new chapter begins with Russell Wilson at the helm. Entering his 13th NFL season, Wilson steps onto the field with the weight of experience and the burden of expectations. Despite the pressures, Wilson maintains a stoic view on external opinions. "I never had it to keep me going," he states, referring to whether doubt drives him. "I've never been -- I don't know why --- I've just never been worried about what other people think."
This move to the Steelers marks a significant moment for both Wilson and the franchise. Wilson, renowned for his resilience and formidable performance, has a career that boasts impressive yet daunting statistics. Averaging 43.9 sacks per year, he has accumulated a staggering 527 sacks over his career to date. This places him within striking distance of Tom Brady's official record of 565 sacks and the unofficial record of 570 sacks held by Fran Tarkenton. By the end of the 2024 season, projections suggest Wilson could reach approximately 570.9 sacks, potentially setting a new benchmark in NFL history.
Wilson's journey also highlights a unique form of resilience in the face of defeat. To date, he has suffered defeats at the hands of 29 different NFL teams. The upcoming schedule presents an opportunity for Wilson to join a rather exclusive, albeit unenviable, club. If the Steelers fall to both the Cleveland Browns and the Philadelphia Eagles this season, Wilson will have losses against 31 different teams. The Steelers will face the Browns in Week 12 and Week 14, followed by the Eagles in Week 15.
Within the ranks of active quarterbacks, Wilson shares this space with notable names. Derek Carr has faced defeat from 30 different teams, with only the Raiders and the Panthers eluding him so far. The Saints, where Carr currently plays, are set to face both these teams in Week 1 and Week 9, respectively. Joe Flacco, now a backup with the Colts, has similarly lost to 30 different teams, missing only a defeat to the Lions. The Colts will get their chance against the Lions in Week 12.
Wilson, however, isn't just about the numbers. His perspective on the game and his role in it carries a profound sense of 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," 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."
As the Steelers prepare to face the Falcons in Week 1, all eyes will be on Wilson to see how he adapts to his new team. The presence of a potential contender in Justin Fields, who could step up if Wilson falters, adds an intriguing layer of competition to the mix. Fields, eager to prove himself, will be ready to seize any opportunity that comes his way. Yet, given Wilson's track record and tenacity, it is clear that he does not intend to let go of the reins easily.
The journey ahead for Russell Wilson and the Pittsburgh Steelers promises to be one of determination, resilience, and potentially record-setting achievements. As the season unfolds, fans and analysts alike will watch closely, bearing witness to how this seasoned quarterback continues to carve his legacy in the annals of NFL history.