Steelers’ Russell Wilson named team captain after QB battle victory over Justin Fields | News, scores, highlights, stats and rumors

Russell Wilson was named captain of the Pittsburgh Steelers on Monday.

Wilson was the lone captain on the offensive side, joining Cameron Heyward, TJ Watt and Miles Killebrew. The nine-time Pro Bowl quarterback is now a team captain for the 12th consecutive season, dating back to his time with the Seattle Seahawks (source: Teresa Varley (steelers.com website).

“He’s a strong leader and he brings veteran experience,” Killebrew told reporters of Wilson. “He’s been doing this at a high level for a long time and I think with that experience, (he) calms the nerves and can guide guys through different situations because he’s seen it. He’s seen a lot, so I would say he’s just a calming presence.”

On Wednesday, Wilson was named the Steelers’ No. 1 quarterback, ahead of Justin Fields.

Wilson is the only new captain for the 2023 season, replacing former Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett.

The 35-year-old signed a one-year, $1.2 million contract with Pittsburgh on March 13 after being waived by the Denver Broncos.

Wilson was unable to exceed expectations during his tenure with the Broncos, finishing with an 11-19 record in two years as a starter. His individual production improved in 2023, completing 66.4 percent of his throws for 3,070 yards and 26 touchdowns compared to just eight interceptions.

A calf problem limited Wilson early in training camp in Pittsburgh, which allowed Fields to get more opportunities in the starting lineup and add some intrigue to the quarterback spot. But the Super Bowl champion ultimately won the job.

“Russ’ resume is exceptional in terms of length and success,” Tomlin said via Dale Lolley the team’s official website. “That tends to play a role in decision-making, but not from a decision-making perspective. It’s just the fruits of his labor. He’s seen and done a lot, and I think it showed in the way he played and carried himself.”

Wilson’s first start for Pittsburgh will be a challenge as the Steelers face the Atlanta Falcons in Week 1. Despite the Falcons’ 7-10 record in 2023, they still have the eighth-best defense in the NFL.