We’re still days away from the start of NFL free agency, but a major domino has just dropped in relation to Russell Wilson, who’s reportedly set to meet with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Gerry Dulac of The Pittsburgh Gazette has the scoop, noting that not only are the Steelers interested in signing the former Super Bowl winner, but there’s a mutual interest with Wilson eyeing Pittsburgh, too.
We previously heard reports that the Steelers were intrigued by how new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith could further Kenny Pickett’s growth. But obviously, Wilson’s presence would throw a wrench into those plans, in addition to Pittsburgh’s chances of re-signing Mason Rudolph.
Chances are, if Wilson hops on board, the Steelers will either have to let Rudolph sign elsewhere or trade Pickett. Being that Pickett is the younger of the two, odds are Rudolph will find a new home in free agency.
Wilson will turn 36 in November, and he’s delivered mixed results across two seasons with the Denver Broncos, but he’s lightyears ahead of anyone Pittsburgh had on their QB depth chart a season ago. Pair him with Mike Tomlin’s sixth-ranked defense instead of Denver’s 27th-ranked unit and see what happens.
While adding Wilson wouldn’t be the final piece to solving Pittsburgh’s offensive struggles, as they need more help in the trenches and more consistent play from their receiver group, he could instantly provide a boost to this offense. But only if he’s able to return to elite form. Some have even suggested there’s ‘no interest‘ in Wilson in free agency. The Steelers are proving that theory wrong.
Heading into his 13th season, just how much more Wilson has left in the tank is a viable question, but you can’t blame the Steelers for being eager to find out.
Related: 5 ideal Russell Wilson landing spots after release from Denver Broncos