The Baltimore Ravens are all set at quarterback with Lamar Jackson installed as the long-term starter and backup Tyler Huntley likely to return. The rival Pittsburgh Steelers, however, need an upgrade as soon as possible. Russell Wilson, soon to be released by the Denver Broncos,
The Kenny Pickett and Mason Rudolph era has not gone to plan despite the Steelers somehow lucking their way into the postseason picture. With names like Kirk Cousins, Justin Fields, and Wilson all available, Mike Tomlin might try to pursue an upgrade for a team that has lacked quality at the position since Ben Roethlisberger retired.
Wilson is heading to Pittsburgh for a meeting with the Steelers, which is as sure a sign as any that they are interested in signing him. Some AFC North fans might get a bit nervous, as the biggest thing holding the Steelers back from contention in the division (poor quarterback play) is one step closer to being solved.
Luckily for a Ravens team that will trot out a two-time MVP in Lamar Jackson and one of the deepest defenses in the league now that Justin Madubuike has been tagged, Baltimore has so much quality on both sides of the ball that adding Wilson won't put Pittsburgh over them in the division.
Before traveling to Pittsburgh today, Russell Wilson stopped in New Jersey for what one source described as “an exploratory meeting” with the Giants, per league sources.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 8, 2024
Wilson is in Pittsburgh today to meet with the Steelers, per sources. pic.twitter.com/gylDU9uNBk
Steelers wouldn't overtake Ravens in AFC North with Russell Wilson signing
While Wilson did throw 26 touchdowns against eight interceptions, an ultra-safe Sean Payton offense that didn't take chances downfield can be used to explain that bump in production. Nathaniel Hackett will suck the life out of any non-Aaron Rodgers offense, but Wilson's play in 2022 was putrid.
Even if Pittsburgh lands Wilson, they have a below-average offensive line. With Wilson getting older and losing the mobility that helped him overcome poor lines during his time with Seattle, the Steelers might not get prime Russ if they sign him. Arthur Smith, the new offensive coordinator, is coming off a tough stint with the Falcons.
Even if Wilson turns back the clock, Pittsburgh will need to fight through one of the best defenses in the league in Cleveland, a Cincinnati team that will bring Joe Burrow back, and a Ravens team that came as close as one could possibly go in the postseason without making it to the Super Bowl. Good luck.
The Steelers are a worthy opponent given their tremendous defense and ability to give even Jackson some fits. Wilson would certainly be an improvement over what they had, but if the goal is winning the division, the Steelers may need to pull off a few more moves in addition to a Russ signing.