In what is the official end to a truly bizarre chapter for quarterback Russell Wilson and the Denver Broncos, the veteran quarterback has officially found his new home. The Broncos chose to release Wilson despite the significant financial responsibility to do so, and as a result, it set up a unique situation for another franchise to add the QB to their team at a low cost.
Wilson is a big name coming to a historic franchise that is looking for offensive stability. Can the veteran QB be the piece that pulls it all together for the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2024? That remains to be seen. NFL fans weighed in on social media last night, and we share the most notable reactions.
NFL World Reacts to Russell Wilson Signing With Steelers
Wilson is a polarizing figure in the NFL for many reasons. The Super Bowl-winning quarterback is known for big moments on the field — and insanely viral moments off of it.
Steelers faithful and the collective NFL world couldn’t help themselves but react to the latest news surrounding the QB.
Steelers Country, Let’s Smelt! #Steelers https://t.co/d8q52g9oGA pic.twitter.com/6vjb9Q2Yp8
— Resident Lightsaber Technician (@hawkstalkers)
One X user is immediately looking to acclimate Wilson to the Steel City and the only way to do so is to get him working the native trade. “Steelers Country, Let’s Smelt! #Steelers”
Smelt, by definition, is “extract (Metal) from its ore by a process involving heating and melting.”
A well-executed welcome for the new Steelers QB.
The happiest man in Pittsburgh right now after seeing what Russ and Sutton did last year. https://t.co/JIkxygpI6o pic.twitter.com/ky5kVCRhYg
— SlightlyAngryJasonSnider (@jsnider33)
One X user is quick to point out that the man who may be the most excited by the signing of Wilson is none other than Steelers WR George Pickens, who, by this poster’s thoughts, is expected to see an increase in opportunities.
“The happiest man in Pittsburgh right now after seeing what Russ and [Courtland] Sutton did last year.”
can’t wait to hear Russ force out a “yinz” somewhere in the first press conference https://t.co/eR1s7HStxT
— Mike Golic Jr (@mikegolicjr)
Media personality and former NFL player Mike Golic Jr. can’t wait to hear Wilson become one with the area.
“Can’t wait to hear Russ force out a ‘yinz’ somewhere in the first press conference.”
Quick thoughts:
-This is an upgrade at A+ value
-Wilson still throws a beautiful go ball—Pickens obviously a beneficiary
-RW has sufficient mobility to add option element to strong run game
-Arthur Smith’s offense built around attacking the MOF…not Russ’ strength https://t.co/uMhoMgB382— Mina Kimes (@minakimes)
On a more serious note, the move makes a lot of sense for the Steelers, as ESPN NFL analyst Mina Kimes points out.
“Quick thoughts: -This is an upgrade at A+ value -Wilson still throws a beautiful go ball—Pickens obviously a beneficiary -RW has sufficient mobility to add option element to strong run game -Arthur Smith’s offense built around attacking the MOF…not Russ’ strength.”
The Steelers have had a top 10 defense in 4 of their last 5 seasons.
The last time Russell Wilson had a top 10 defense, he won a playoff game.
If you’re looking for hope in Russell Wilson joining the Steelers, look no further than that. https://t.co/MgSFr7C3U6
— Emmanuel Acho (@EmmanuelAcho)
To add further context, Fox Sports’ Emmanuel Acho remarks on why the Wilson and Pittsburgh pairing makes sense.
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“The Steelers have had a top 10 defense in 4 of their last 5 seasons. The last time Russell Wilson had a top 10 defense, he won a playoff game. If you’re looking for hope in Russell Wilson joining the Steelers, look no further than that.”
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