Russell Wilson reportedly wanted to sign with this team instead of the New York Giants

The New York Giants have a brand new starting quarterback after getting Russell Wilson signed to a one-year contract with a base value of $10.5 million and worth up to $21 million. He’ll join a Giants QB depth chart that starts with Wilson, features former No. 1 overall pick Jameis Winston as the backup, and local former undrafted free agent Tommy DeVito as the third-stringer.

Wilson’s decision comes after nearly a month-long free agency process that saw him take official visits with the Cleveland Browns and the Giants following a successful season as the Pittsburgh Steelers‘ starter. While Wilson agreed to sign with the Giants, they reportedly weren’t his first choice this offseason.

Russell Wilson’s first choice was the Pittsburgh Steelers

With no established starting quarterback, the New York Giants kicked off the offseason as arguably the team most desperate for a roster upgrade at the most important position in pro sports. Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston patches up their biggest weakness, even if it’s just for one season.

While Wilson was happy to land a contract with the Giants, they reportedly weren’t his first choice.

According to local Steelers insider Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Wilson preferred to re-sign in Pittsburgh rather than join the Giants.

“Russell Wilson wanted to remain with the Steelers, right up till the end, before he agreed to a deal with the Giants, per sources.”
Gerry Dulac on Russell Wilson/Pittsburgh Steelers

The Steelers are instead in hot pursuit of Aaron Rodgers, hoping the four-time NFL MVP and future Hall of Famer feels like he has no choice but to join their winning effort. The Minnesota Vikings have also been linked to the former Packers quarterback, yet there’s been no indication that they’re interested in signing him to a contract right now.

Barring a major surprise, Wilson’s signing in New York suggests Rodgers is headed to Pittsburgh. It may just be a matter of when, and how much he’s willing to sign for.