Maybe the Pittsburgh Steelers want a big-name quarterback after all. Despite previous reports indicating little desire to seek veteran replacement by Kenny Pickett, the team tentatively plans to meet with former Denver Broncos starter Russell Wilson before 2024 NFL free agency, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Cleared to speak with other teams prior to his official release from the Broncos, Wilson is interested in joining the Steelers, according to the report, and contrary to previous reports, Pittsburgh is apparently also interested in signing the former Super Bowl champion.
Steelers officials had promised to add competition for Pickett, the team’s 2022 first-round pick, but coach Mike Tomlin was particularly supportive of the third-year signal-caller, signaling he would get another audition as a regular. Multiple reports this offseason subsequently suggested that Pittsburgh would not add any quarterbacks expecting to join the team as undisputed starters, including Minnesota Vikings free agent Kirk Cousins and trade candidate Chicago Bears Justin Fields.
Wilson, 35, is coming off a tumultuous two-year stint in Denver, where he arrived as a prized trade acquisition but went just 11-19 before a late-season demotion to 2023. Prior to his tenure with the Broncos, he spent 10 years with the Broncos. Seattle Seahawks, frequently ranking among the NFL’s most productive dual-threat quarterbacks and helping guide the club to two Super Bowl appearances.
The Steelers’ interest in Wilson could be helped by the fact that the quarterback is likely available at a discounted price. Due to Denver’s tens of millions in his 2022 extension with the Broncos, he could sign with a new team at a near-minimum rate to increase interest from across the NFL.