Steelers WR Calvin Austin III's Belief In Russell Wilson As A Leader Is Rising: "Brings The Whole Team Together"

When the Pittsburgh Steelers decided to go out and sign Russell Wilson for the veteran minimum, most of the Steel City knew about the leadership qualities that would come with him. It's still surprising although, to hear about how many great things a lot of the current players have to say about Wilson. Going into his 13th career season, Wilson more than likely only has one more chance to prove to the world that he's still got it. To do that, he needs his support from his pass catchers, and Calvin Austin III has praised Wilson for his leadership time after time this offseason. 

Austin, going into his second active season, is looking to be involved more in the Steelers' offense. Pittsburgh and their previous offensive system struggled with utilizing Austin and his speed, but Wilson seems to like throwing the ball to him a lot. With the Steelers not making any moves for another receiver as of late, Austin has some big weight on his shoulders. A big year from him is crucial for Pittsburgh's offense if they want to see improvements in the passing game from the last few years. 

Wilson and his leadership quickly impacted the team after he signed, as he and teammates have gotten many practices and dinners in together. In a time where the Steelers are desperately fighting for some playoff victories, having a leader like Wilson under center will be a massive help. Recently on 92.9 FM ESPN in Memphis, Austin praised Wilson once again for his leadership this far into the offseason.

"He's all in. Because of who he is, his popularity, he's almost gotten a rep in the media. When I was first meeting him, it's hard not to almost think that way. From day one, totally down to earth," Austin detailed. "Hitting you up, texting you after practice, like, 'Man, you look great out there.' He's been that guy that brings the whole team together. He's won a Super Bowl, so he knows what it takes. Whether it's on or off the field, he knows you gotta build on and off the field if you wanna get to the top."

The Steelers have lacked quarterbacks who have significant playoff experience since Ben Roethlisberger retired. Wilson is one of the most respected players that has contributed on and off of the field. Austin's excitement doesn't just speak for himself, but for a ton of the team. With having such a disappointing first season playing, Wilson has done a great job of keeping Austin confident in himself and his abilities. 

This season is a huge one for both Wilson and Austin, as they both are looking to make improvements individually and collectively. The goal in the Pittsburgh locker room is to hoist the Lombardi Trophy for their seventh time in franchise history, but can Wilson, Austin, and the rest get the job done?

Steelers Adding A Weapon For Russell Wilson?

The Steel City is still waiting to hear if the Steelers are trading for Brandon Aiyuk, which would change the dynamic of their offense. Aiyuk recently requested a trade from the San Francisco 49ers, after the two parties still cannot come to an agreement on a new contract. Aiyuk and the Steelers certainly seem to have interest in each other, the deciding factor is whether the 49ers want to trade him and if the Steelers will settle for what they want. Pittsburgh's receiving core seems somewhat weak right now as a whole, but adding a star like Aiyuk could help Wilson breakout to his old form. 

It was reported that five teams (those teams were unsaid), were interested in Aiyuk and were willing to offer him his request during the 2024 NFL Draft. It hasn't been revealed if one of those teams were the Steelers, but there's still plenty of time to get a trade done before the regular season kicks off in September.

What do you think of Wilson and Austin's connection? Should the Steelers go out and trade for Aiyuk? Let us know in the comments below.

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