Russell Wilson is heading to the Pittsburgh Steelers. The nine-time Pro Bowl quarterback has agreed to sign a one-year contract with the Steelers, a person familiar with the details told the Associated Press on Sunday evening.
The AP source said Wilson will receive the veteran’s minimum $1.21 million, while the Denver Broncos will pay the remainder of his $39 million salary.
Wilson posted his intentions on X, saying: “Year 13. Grateful. Steelers.”
The 35-year-old was 11-19 in two seasons with the Broncos after being acquired in a trade from Seattle. He bounced back from a terrible 2022 season, throwing for 3,070 yards, 26 touchdowns and just eight interceptions, but still lost his job to Jarrett Stidham after going 7-8 in coach Sean Payton’s first season last year.
Wilson led Seattle to eight playoff appearances and a Super Bowl title in 10 seasons with the Seahawks.
The Steelers lost a wild card playoff game last season with Mason Rudolph as their starting quarterback. Rudolph replaced Kenny Pickett, who was 7-5 before going down with an injury. Mitch Trubisky started the other two games and went 0-2.
The Steelers will play the Broncos in Denver next season – and the game could feature a return from Wilson. The NFL is expected to announce the league schedule in May.
Last week, the Broncos informed Wilson they would release him when the new league year begins Wednesday, but allowed him to talk to other teams.
“We thank Russell for his contributions and dedication to our team and community, while we wish him the best as he continues his career,” the Broncos posted on their social media channels last week, adding: “We are excited to start this offseason and will have the flexibility to get better through the draft and free agency.”
After signing a nearly quarter-billion-dollar extension before even playing a down in Denver, Wilson claimed the Broncos threatened to bench him for the final nine games last season if he voided his $37 injury bond million in his contract. .
Wilson refused to amend his deal and started seven more games before being benched in what Payton said was a football rather than a financial move.