Since entering the league, Russell Wilson has been an outstanding quarterback. While he clearly had a huge impact on the field, he also made his presence felt in the community. It was on display during Tuesday night’s episode of Hard Knocks.
The segment focused on Wilson and the Steelers featured the unveiling of his and wife Ciara’s first “Why Not You” center in Pittsburgh as part of his foundation. Created in an effort to provide Child education and health services, poverty eradication.
In the video, Wilson is seen talking to one of the foundation’s children. The kid asked Wilson, “Do you like the Steelers?”
“Yes I love them. “It’s really amazing.” Wilson said.
When Ai asked if he would re-sign with Pittsburgh, Wilson responded:
“I really like it here, it looks great. I hope we can win the Super Bowl.”
Of course, in a room full of kids, Wilson couldn’t exactly shatter anyone’s dreams by saying, “No, I’m leaving.” But everything points to the sincerity of his comments and his desire to remain in Pittsburgh. Shortly after he signed, reports emerged that the two sides were ‘intending to sign a longer deal’ at the end of the year. Of course, the Hard Knocks crew decided that Russell Wilson’s comment was important enough to be included in Tuesday night’s episode.
If he didn’t perform well in 2024, that conversation probably wouldn’t have happened. Fortunately, Wilson performed well in Pittsburgh. They fell twice, suffering two heavy losses to the Cleveland Browns and Philadelphia Eagles under Wilson. Still, Pittsburgh has won six of eight games under Wilson and is poised to win its first playoff game in eight years.
It makes sense that Wilson would want to remain in Pittsburgh, as he’ll be facing Mike Tomlin and probably won’t want to start fresh with his third team in three years. If he continues to play well, the Steelers’ feelings will be mutual. Determining the details of his contract could be tricky and his market value is unclear. I don’t know if he’s worth $30 million or $40 million, but if both sides have the will, they’ll find a way.
From the Steelers’ opening press conference to a mid-season ESPN interview, Wilson said he would like to play another 5-7 season so he would be in his low-to-mid 40s. How many of those with the Steelers remain up in the air? He’s currently doing well in Pittsburgh and is clearly doing well at home as well.
