In what some might interpret as a show of faith in their often-criticized quarterback, the Pittsburgh Steelers have appointed Russell Wilson as their sole offensive captain for the 2024 NFL season.
Wilson will be joining defensive end Cameron Heyward (tenth selection), linebacker T.J. Watt (fourth selection), and safety/special teamer Miles Killebrew (third selection) as team captains. He secured the starting quarterback role after signing a one-year, $1.4 million contract following his release from the Denver Broncos.
Both Wilson and fellow Steelers quarterback Justin Fields had underwhelming performances during the preseason. FOX NFL analyst Mark Schlereth expressed skepticism about Wilson lasting more than five games as the starter.
So, why was Wilson chosen as captain? It’s nearly customary for NFL teams to appoint their starting quarterback as captain; failing to do so would raise serious questions about the former Super Bowl champion’s commitment to the team.
The New England Patriots recently named Jacoby Brissett as one of their captains for the season opener, despite his role as a temporary placeholder for Drake Maye, the third pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Similarly, the Chicago Bears have named rookie Caleb Williams as a captain, making him the team’s first rookie captain since they began naming them officially in 2007.
Wilson, who joined the Steelers after two less-than-stellar seasons with the Denver Broncos, did show some potential in 2023, throwing for 3,070 yards with a 26-8 TD-INT ratio and a 7-8 record over 15 starts.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin highlighted the close competition between Wilson and Fields for the starting role, describing it as difficult but in a positive way due to their capabilities and conduct. He noted that Wilson’s extensive experience and past success were influential in the decision, reflecting his performance and leadership.
Wilson, who has been a captain throughout his NFL career—including ten years with the Seattle Seahawks and two with the Broncos—will be the only offensive captain this season. Last year, the Steelers had Kenny Pickett as their lone offensive captain. Wilson will lead the team in the season opener against the Atlanta Falcons, who were ranked 19th in opponent passer rating in 2023.
Ben Roethlisberger has voiced concerns about the Steelers’ decision to go with both Wilson and Fields this season. Following the retirement of legendary quarterback Ben Roethlisberger after the 2021 season, the team drafted Pickett to be his successor but has since brought in Wilson and Fields for the starting role. Roethlisberger worries that if Wilson struggles, fans may increasingly call for Fields, a situation reminiscent of the fan-driven quarterback switches seen last year.
Despite a promising roster, the Steelers will face a tough schedule in 2024 with strong divisional rivals like the Cincinnati Bengals, Baltimore Ravens, and Cleveland Browns. Roethlisberger fears that any early struggles from Wilson could lead to impatient fans. However, with Mike Tomlin’s track record of never having a losing season, Roethlisberger believes Tomlin will manage the situation effectively.
“I trust Coach T to handle it,” Roethlisberger said. “It’s going to be a unique situation as the season unfolds. If Russ performs well, that’s great, but every quarterback, even the greatest ones, has challenging games.”
