By Adeniyi Precious 
Russell Wilson Wanted to Stay in Pittsburgh—Steelers Had Other Plans
Russell Wilson was hoping for a second year with the Steelers, but the team had different ideas. Despite Wilson regaining the starting job in 2024 and showing flashes of success, Pittsburgh prioritized keeping Justin Fields and even considered Sam Darnold. When Fields opted to sign with the Jets, the Steelers shifted their focus to Aaron Rodgers instead of bringing Wilson back.
Wilson held out hope for a return to Pittsburgh well into free agency, but the Steelers never made a serious push to re-sign him. Some within the organization reportedly believed he was “physically done” and preferred taking a chance on Fields’ potential. Meanwhile, head coach Mike Tomlin had favored Wilson as a passer last season, but the veteran QB had some issues with offensive coordinator Arthur Smith.
With Pittsburgh moving on, Wilson landed with the Giants, where he’ll serve as a bridge quarterback. It’s been a tough few years for Wilson, who once seemed destined for the Hall of Fame but has now been let go by two teams in back-to-back offseasons. Still, he’ll get another shot in New York, and with a guaranteed $10.5 million on the table, he won’t lack motivation.