Russell Wilson finally announced his retirement after 14 seasons, opting to transition into a broadcasting role with CBS Sports rather than accepting a backup offer with the New York Jets.
How Did the NFL World React to Russell Wilson Announcing His Retirement?
Wilson took to his social media handle and posted a video of his career highlights, along with the caption, “Thank You, Football. Love, #3” The reactions were immediate.
Thank You, Football.
Love, #3 pic.twitter.com/hqlS7kWQpy
— Russell Wilson (@DangeRussWilson) June 3, 2026
Former NFL QB Robert Griffin III wrote on his X handle, “Russell Wilson just announced his retirement and he is a HALL OF FAMER FOR SURE”
Former NFL QB Dan Orlovsky replied, “Russ was one of the greats of his generation man.”
Russ was one of the greats of his generation man. https://t.co/gnVdMVgFRt
— Dan Orlovsky (@danorlovsky7) June 3, 2026
Former NFL linebacker Emmanuel Acho posted on his X handle, “Proud of you brother. Love you brother. The game of football is better because you played it. You were an incredible player, but an even better man. Well done. Well done.”
Former NFL star Jamal Adams noted, “You the man, brotha! Never let em tell you different. It was an honor taking the field with you. Salute 3!”
Bussin’ With The Boys’ X handle declared, “Officially official: Russell Wilson has announced his retirement on social media. Hell of a career for Mr. Unlimited 👏”
Officially official: Russell Wilson has announced his retirement on social media.
Hell of a career for Mr. Unlimited 👏 pic.twitter.com/54HxONP0Tn
— Bussin’ With The Boys (@BussinWTB) June 3, 2026
Legendary NFL WR Chad Johnson dropped the following reaction: “🫡”
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NFL insider Jordan Schultz shared his favorite Wilson story as he recalled how the QB, being an undersized third-round pick, won the starting job for the Seahawks over the free agent Matt Flynn and then soon afterwards led Seattle to its first-ever Super Bowl win.
He added, “It didn’t always come easy for Russ, but he undoubtedly went on to become one of the best quarterbacks of a generation, Walter Payton Man of the Year and a surefire Hall of Famer. 💯💯”
Wilson leaves the gridiron with a resume that firmly places him in the Hall of Fame conversation. Over his 14-year career with the Seattle Seahawks, Denver Broncos, Pittsburgh Steelers, and New York Giants, Wilson accumulated some impressive stats.
He recorded 46,966 passing yards and 353 passing touchdowns against just 114 interceptions. He established dual-threat excellence as he also registered 5,568 rushing yards and 31 rushing touchdowns, cementing his legacy as one of the most elusive quarterbacks to ever play.
Wilson leaves behind a legacy that will be hard to replicate with his career starting record of 121-80-1, including two Super Bowl appearances and a ring in Super Bowl XLVIII.
Ultimately, Wilson chose legacy and transition over late-career compromise. Rather than holding a clipboard behind his former backup Geno Smith in New York, the 37-year-old is taking his high-profile brand directly to the studio.
