The NFL free agency market is hot, and Russell Wilson is one of the biggest fish in the sea. The veteran quarterback, who played last year for the Pittsburgh Steelers, is now shopping himself around. To date, he has been mentioned as a target by the Steelers, New York Giants, and Cleveland Browns. But reports indicate that Wilson would have a strong preference if he were to get his choice of where he will play next year.
Wilson’s Free Agency Experience
Wilson, at 36 years old, is at a critical stage in his career. His stint with the Denver Broncos ended on a sour note and resulted in his release before his signing with the Steelers for a new beginning. In Pittsburgh, he produced glimpses of his previous best but was not accorded a long-term commitment.
As Russell Wilson chose his free agency team, he soon became in demand as a veteran quarterback. He went to the Browns on Thursday and sat down with the Giants on Friday, but both teams made no offer. Though he visited the two teams, sources say his first choice is still Pittsburgh.
Steelers’ Cautious Approach
While Wilson wants to return to Pittsburgh, the Steelers aren’t in a hurry to sign him up again. After Russell Wilson chooses a free agency team, the Steelers are still weighing its options, says Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. It has nothing to do with money—they’re just not interested in guaranteeing any quarterback for the long haul.
The Steelers have also been rumored to be interested in Aaron Rodgers, who is choosing between Pittsburgh, the Giants, the Minnesota Vikings, or retirement. If Rodgers goes to the Steelers, Wilson might need to seek elsewhere.
Pittsburgh’s Quarterback Plan
The Steelers’ quarterback strategy remains unclear. One thing is certain, though: they won’t sign any quarterback to more than a one-year deal. That includes both Rodgers and Wilson. The team is focused on the future, planning to draft a young quarterback either this year or next year.
This implies that even if Wilson comes back to Pittsburgh, he will probably sign a short-term deal. The Steelers need a bridge quarterback that will make them competitive while they build a long-term answer.
How Wilson Fits with Pittsburgh
Wilson’s experience and leadership qualify him as an asset to any team that needs a quarterback. He already has chemistry with the offense in Pittsburgh and knows the system. His mobility, accuracy, and decision-making could keep the Steelers in the hunt in the AFC North.
But Wilson is not the sole choice. If the Steelers cannot sign Wilson or Rodgers, they might be forced to hold on to Mason Rudolph or look elsewhere. That would greatly hurt their chances at the playoffs.
Other Possible Landing Spots after Russell Wilson chooses the free agency team.
Although Wilson wants to return to Pittsburgh, he might need to look elsewhere if the Steelers do not offer him a deal.
New York Giants: The Giants expressed interest, yet they have Daniel Jones under a contract. Wilson would be an upgrade on a short-term basis, but the Giants appear resistant to making that move.
Cleveland Browns: Wilson went through Cleveland, and no agreement happened. The Browns have Deshaun Watson in-house, so whether they’ve ever had an actual interest in Wilson is unclear.
If the Steelers, Giants, and Browns won’t sign him, Wilson could have to pursue other surprising options.
What’s Next for Wilson?
Wilson’s decision to become a free agent hinges on what the Steelers do with their quarterback. If they dawdle too long on Aaron Rodgers, Wilson might get impatient and sign with another team. But if Rodgers signs with another team, Wilson’s return to Pittsburgh is more likely.
With the Steelers, Giants, and Browns all undecided, Wilson hangs in the balance. The world of the NFL is anxiously waiting to determine where the once-Super Bowl champion will go next.
