After only seven months of being a Pittsburgh Steeler, quarterback Russell Wilson was chosen to be one of the four captains for the 2024 season by his teammates. Wilson’s strong leadership skills and veteran experience were highlighted by his fellow players Miles Killebrew, Cameron Heyward, and T.J. Watt. According to Killebrew, Wilson’s extensive experience helps calm nerves and enables him to guide his teammates through various situations due to his wealth of knowledge and wisdom gained from playing at a high level for an extended period.
Prior to being named a captain, Wilson had signed a one-year deal with the Steelers in March and was subsequently appointed as the starting quarterback over Justin Fields after the final preseason game. Despite being limited during training camp and the preseason due to a calf injury, Wilson’s NFL experience and Super Bowl victory played a crucial role in securing his position as the starting quarterback for the team. Head coach Tomlin expressed that Wilson’s impressive resume and track record of success were significant factors in his selection as captain, highlighting his ability to lead and conduct himself with poise.
It is a tradition for the Steelers to elect their starting quarterback as one of the team captains. Former first-round pick Kenny Pickett held the captaincy in 2023, while Mitch Trubisky retained the title in 2022 despite being benched in Week 4. Ben Roethlisberger, a first-round pick and captain for 13 seasons under Mike Tomlin, also had a notable tenure as a team leader. Wilson’s experience as a captain with the Denver Broncos and the Seattle Seahawks, as well as his consistent leadership throughout his career, led to his appointment as captain for the Steelers in his first season with the team.
Members of the Steelers, such as Heyward, emphasized the need for strong leadership on the offensive side of the ball, indicating that Wilson was prepared to take on that role. Given Wilson’s proven track record and achievements in his career, his teammates expressed confidence in his ability to lead the team effectively. Killebrew’s third consecutive election as a team captain, Heyward’s tenth straight nod, and Watt’s fourth appointment highlight the importance of experience in leadership roles within the team. Heyward acknowledged Wilson’s exceptional accomplishments and stated that he possesses the qualities needed to lead the team to success.
Wilson’s appointment as a team captain for the Pittsburgh Steelers signifies a new chapter in his career and demonstrates the team’s confidence in his leadership abilities. As he embarks on this latest role, Wilson’s experience, poise, and track record of success are expected to guide the team to new heights in the upcoming season.
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