Steelers' Jerome Bettis Confident Russell Wilson Can Get Pittsburgh Back To Glory: 'Potential To Be Special'

The Pittsburgh Steelers grabbed headlines this offseason with some major moves, chief among them being the signing of former Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson to a one-year deal at the veteran minimum. Following closely behind was the acquisition of former Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields via trade. Both transactions netted the Steelers solid quarterbacks with divergent career trajectories, all at remarkable value.

Former Steelers running back Jerome Bettis recently shared his insights on The Joe Starkey Show on 93.7 The Fan, emerging into the team's decision to decline Najee Harris' fifth-year option and offering his perspective on the Steelers' offseason maneuvers, including the addition of Wilson. When asked about Wilson's standing as an elite quarterback, Bettis weighed in with his assessment.

“Yes, he can still play one hundred percent yes, and he will be effective in this offense. He’s going to be good in this offense.”

While Bettis is encouraged by Wilson he does have one worry. He raised concerns about the Steelers' approach to having two quarterbacks. If the team genuinely prioritizes fielding the best quarterback, a stance Bettis aligns with and believes favors Wilson, then he harbors full confidence in Wilson's ability to lead the Steelers to success. 

However, Bettis expresses apprehension if the Steelers opt to play both quarterbacks during the season. In his view, a sole reliance on Wilson to lead the team would inspire greater confidence in the team's prospects.

“If Russell Wilson is the guy, he’s going to be special. I really believe he has all the talent and the know how and skillset to be big time. This offense can allow him to do that because it’s not going to ask him to do a whole lot because we are going to be able to run the football. If you put him in that play-action, he has the potential to be special.”

As of now, Mike Tomlin has made it abundantly clear: Wilson is the designated starter with Fields given the opportunity to compete for the starting job. With this setup, Wilson currently holds the reins. Bettis expresses confidence that within Arthur Smith's new system in Pittsburgh, Wilson is primed to excel.

Wilson finds himself nearing the twilight of his illustrious career, which began with remarkable success during his tenure with the Seattle Seahawks. During his stint there, Wilson earned nine Pro Bowl selections and secured a Super Bowl victory, all while operating in an offense akin to what Smith aims to implement in Pittsburgh.

As Bettis highlights, this offensive scheme doesn't demand an extensive workload from Wilson. While he may not possess the same dual-threat capabilities as in his prime, he remains adept at airing out the deep ball and utilizing his mobility when necessary. 

Wilson's arrival in Pittsburgh follows a peak in his career, marked by the signing of a massive five-year contract worth $242 million. However right after that peak, subsequent seasons with the Broncos saw a decline in performance, culminating in the team's decision to part ways, despite financial repercussions. In other words the Broncos were so discouraged by Wilson they were willing to pay several millions to get rid of him. 

Steelers' Russell Wilson Is Eager To Prove Himself In Pittsburgh

Eager to prove his detractors wrong, Wilson arrives in Pittsburgh fueled by a desire to demonstrate his elite status once again. Throughout his career, he has exemplified resilience and determination in the face of adversity. While recent seasons may have overshadowed his previous accomplishments, Bettis remains steadfast in his belief that Wilson can thrive within Smith's system.

With Wilson steering the ship, the Steelers aim to break their playoff win drought, which has persisted since the 2016 season. Bettis asserts that under Wilson's leadership, 2024 could signal a return to postseason success for the Steelers. In Pittsburgh, the benchmark for success is set by Super Bowl victories, and with Wilson leading the charge on offense, the prospects for the 2024 season seem decidedly optimistic, at least for the time being.