Steelers Fans Called Foolish For Belief In Russell Wilson: "Gallon Of Milk Three Years Past Its Expiration Date"

The Pittsburgh Steelers' quarterbacks for the 2023 season—Kenny Pickett, Mason Rudolph, and Mitch Trubisky—combined for 13 passing touchdowns and nine interceptions. The offensive struggles were significant, leading to the midseason firing of Offensive Coordinator Matt Canada. Remarkably, the Steelers still managed to make the playoffs, largely thanks to Rudolph.

After the season, it was evident that the Steelers needed to bring in serious competition for Pickett. They signed former Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson to a one-year deal at the veteran minimum. This move upset Pickett, leading to his trade. Subsequently, the Steelers traded for another quarterback, Justin Fields.

The quarterback room underwent a complete overhaul. Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin announced that Wilson is the starter, with Fields given a chance to compete for the position. The changes have captured headlines, sparking debates about whether Wilson can rejuvenate the Steelers' offense. Tyler Dunne of Go Long, in his June Mailbag, expressed that Steelers fans are deceiving themselves regarding Wilson's potential impact.

"Pittsburgh has mastered the art of mucking games up," Dunne wrote. "Never count out a team with arguably the best non-QB in football (T.J. Watt). They'll hover around .500. But talking yourself into this version of Russell Wilson leading your team to a championship feels like chugging a gallon of milk three years past its expiration date."

The Steelers are renowned for winning tight games, relying on their star-studded defense to stay competitive, and often come out on top. This resilience is a key reason why Tomlin has never had a losing season in his 17 years as head coach. However, the Steelers have not won a playoff game since the 2016 season.

Many fans are hopeful that the addition of new quarterbacks, Wilson and Fields, will help end that playoff drought in 2024. Dunne likened having faith in Wilson to drinking milk three years past its expiration date—a humorous, yet arguably fair comparison.

Wilson joined the Broncos via trade and signed a five-year, $242 million deal before the 2022 season. Unfortunately, his time with the Broncos was forgettable, as he threw for just 16 touchdowns and 11 interceptions in his first season with the team. These underwhelming numbers from a highly-paid quarterback fell far short of expectations, leaving many skeptical about his ability to revive the Steelers' offense.

The Broncos' 2023 season wasn't much better, although Wilson's performance improved under new Head Coach Sean Payton. Wilson threw for 26 touchdowns and just eight interceptions, showing increased productivity and efficiency. However, the Broncos benched him towards the end of the season due to his refusal to rework his contract, ultimately paying him several million dollars to leave the team.

Steelers' Russell Wilson Will Be In A Much Better Situation In Pittsburgh

At this stage in his career, the nine-time Pro Bowler and former Super Bowl champion, Wilson faces a significant challenge to regain his status among elite quarterbacks. Despite his rapid decline, his situation in Pittsburgh presents a different scenario. 

With a much better offense under new Offensive Coordinator, Arthur Smith, a strong running game, capable tight ends, and a solid defense to support him, there are reasons for Steelers fans to be optimistic. While not everyone is convinced, there is genuine hope that Wilson can succeed in Pittsburgh.

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