Steelers’ Playoff Hopes in Jeopardy: Russell Wilson’s Struggles Exposed

The Pittsburgh Steelers currently sit at 10-6, which on paper looks like a significant improvement over last year’s quarterback struggles involving Kenny Pickett, Mason Rudolph, and Mitch Trubisky. However, a closer look reveals lingering concerns about the team’s long-term outlook, particularly with veteran quarterback Russell Wilson.

Despite a promising start to the season, Pittsburgh is just one loss away from finishing 10-7—the same record as in 2023. The team has dropped three straight games, scoring a mere 40 points over that stretch. During these losses, Wilson’s performance has dipped, producing only three touchdowns, two interceptions, and a quarterback rating of 82.2. This is a stark contrast to his earlier success in which he threw 12 touchdowns with a 103.9 rating during a 6-1 start.

At 36 years old, Wilson’s age and recent struggles have raised questions about his viability as the Steelers’ quarterback moving forward. However, ESPN insider Adam Schefter suggested on *Get Up* that Pittsburgh may have no choice but to stick with Wilson, as there are limited alternatives in the quarterback market.

“They’d like to keep Wilson and even sign him long-term,” Schefter said. “But even if they wanted to move on, who could they get that’s an upgrade? The draft has only two top-tier quarterbacks, and Pittsburgh won’t have access to either of them. The free-agent market isn’t much better, with names like Sam Darnold and Wilson himself as the best options.”

Schefter added that the Steelers’ main focus should be improving their overall roster, especially their ability to force turnovers. “Without winning the turnover battle, this team won’t be able to compete with the league’s elite,” he said.

As the Steelers prepare for their season finale against the Bengals, the team faces mounting pressure to resolve its quarterback dilemma and build a more competitive roster in the offseason. Whether Wilson remains the answer under center is a question the organization may have no choice but to answer affirmatively—at least for now.