Steelers QB Russell Wilson Breaks Silence After Being Named Starter

The Pittsburgh Steelers have officially named Russell Wilson as their starting quarterback, giving the nine-time Pro Bowler the nod over Justin Fields.

Wilson spoke to reporters for the first time since coach Mike Tomlin's decision ahead of Wednesday's practice.

“I’m super excited to be here," Wilson said. "Obviously, I came here to help us win. That’s the focus. The best part is how hard we’ve all worked every day all the way from OTAs to Latrobe. We’ve got a great season ahead of us.”

The Steelers signed Wilson to a one-year veteran's minimum deal worth $1.21 million this offseason. Wilson was available after the Denver Broncos released him, and they will pay him $39 million to not be on the roster.

Wilson has a decorated resume but is coming off a challenging year with the Broncos. He went 7-8 in his starts, amassing 3,070 yards, 26 touchdowns and eight interceptions.

The quarterback battle became interesting in March when the Steelers made a trade for Fields. Pittsburgh sent the Chicago Bears a conditional sixth-round draft pick in 2025 in exchange for the former first-round pick.

Wilson embraced the quarterback battle with Fields and appreciated being pushed.

“Every day you try and be your best," Wilson said. "I think we’re always competing to be our best as players. I think that’s the one thing I’ve learned ever since my rookie year.”

The Steelers open the season on September 8 against the Atlanta Falcons.

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