Russell Wilson signing one-year deal with Pittsburgh Steelers, reports say
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- Russell Wilson is expected to sign a one-year deal with the Steelers this week, according to numerous reports.
ESPN's Adam Schefter initially broke the news late Sunday night that Wilson will sign a team-friendly, one-year deal once his release from the Broncos becomes official at the start of the NFL's league year.
Russell Wilson, through the years: pic.twitter.com/wz0c60tu5J
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 11, 2024
The 35-year-old veteran is expected to compete with Kenny Pickett for the starting quarterback job, according to Gerry Dulac with the Post-Gazette.
Schefter reported that Wilson met with Head Coach Mike Tomlin and new Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith for over six hours on Saturday.
Wilson shared a post on social media saying "Year 13. Grateful" and tagged the Steelers with a video of the infamous "Renegade" playing and highlights from Acrisure Stadium.
Year 13. Grateful. @Steelers pic.twitter.com/0U4Q2sRtXs
— Russell Wilson (@DangeRussWilson) March 11, 2024
Earlier this month, the Broncos announced they would be releasing Wilson after two seasons.
According to the Associated Press, Wilson is expected to sign for the veteran's minimum salary of $1.21 million per year while the Broncos pay the remainder of his $39 million salary.
Wilson will be eligible to sign with the Steelers when the NFL's league year officially begins on Wednesday at 4 p.m.
Russell Wilson's career path
The nine-time Pro Bowler has had an up-and-down career after being selected by the Seahawks in the third round of the NFL Draft in 2012 out of Wisconsin.
In just his second season, Wilson helped lead the Seahawks to a Super Bowl win over the Denver Broncos.
Over the next eight years, Wilson was a key franchise player for the Seahawks, leading Seattle to back-to-back Super Bowl appearances.
In early 2022, Wilson was dealt to Denver in a trade that was followed by a massive contract signing worth $245 million.
After just two seasons in Denver and an 11-9 record as a starter there, the Broncos announced Wilson would be released, making him a free agent while still receiving his salary he was due that was guaranteed.
Steelers fans react to Russell Wilson's signing
Now the Pittsburgh Steelers fans said they're hoping he's the man to take them to a Super Bowl.
"I hope he brings a championship to Pittsburgh," said Steelers fan Michael Connor.
"He's got a great career behind him and if he can bring it here that's great news for all of us," Connor said.
It's creating high hopes for black and gold fans.
Last season, the 35-year-old threw more than 3,000 yards and tossed 26 touchdowns. With this deal, Wilson would get paid here while Denver still pays him $39 million he's owed for the upcoming season.
"I honestly think for Russ, it's not about the money. He's a man of God, he's a man of prayer. Mike Tomlin, the whole team's about that. I think that's honestly beautiful," said Josiah Vaughn.
Non-Steelers fans have different opinions about the expected deal. Kani Williams said, "Bad trade, bad dude. I wouldn't do that."
However, Steelers Coach Mike Tomlin said last year's starting quarterback back Kenny Pickett would face some competition for his job this year. Now the Steelers are bringing in an established veteran to compete.
"I would say Russ, he's a vet. Kenny's been doing trash the last past -- what? -- two years he's been here," said Williams.
"He's a veteran, he brings a lot to the table. Kenny is young, he can probably learn a lot from Russell in the beginning," Daniel Grinage said.
The community can't forget Wilson would also bring his wife, celebrity singer, Ciara.
"Plus, Ciara be one of the biggest stars in Pittsburgh in years," Grinage said.
It's a big deal in the making, Steelers fans and Wilson seem committed to so far. Wilson's contract can't be signed until Wednesday after 4 p.m., but the Broncos let Wilson make an agreement with the Steelers early on and it looks promising.