Things are starting to pick up for former Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson as the free agency legal tampering period progresses. News broke earlier that Wilson is piling in visits, including one with the Cleveland Browns this week, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. And it’s not stopping there—ESPN’s Adam Schefter confirmed that Wilson is set to arrive in Cleveland tonight before heading to New York to meet with the Giants later.
After a calf injury sidelined him at the start of the 2024 season, Wilson rejoined the action as the starting quarterback in Week 7. In his eleven starts for the Pittsburgh Steelers, he managed to lead the team to a respectable 6-5 record, throwing for 2,482 yards, 16 touchdowns, and just five interceptions. His performance showed glimpses of the talent that made him a household name in the league.
Wilson’s journey in the NFL began when he was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the third round (75th overall) of the 2012 NFL Draft after a stellar college career at NC State and Wisconsin. During his decade in Seattle, he became a perennial Pro Bowler with nine selections, clinched a victory in Super Bowl XLVIII, and garnered the 2020 Walter Payton Man of the Year award—a testament to his off-field contributions as well.
After a high-profile trade in 2022 that sent him to the Broncos, expectations soared. The Broncos gave up a hefty package that included former quarterback Drew Lock, tight end Noah Fant, defensive lineman Shelby Harris, multiple first and second-round picks, and more. However, despite some improvement during his second season under Head Coach Sean Payton, Wilson’s time in Denver left much to be desired, prompting the franchise to release him and paving the way for his signing with Pittsburgh.
What adds an intriguing layer to Wilson’s Browns visit is the situation surrounding the New York Jets and their free-agent quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who is reportedly torn between the Steelers and Giants. If Cleveland were to scoop up Wilson before Rodgers makes a commitment, it could set off a chain reaction that leaves both New York and Pittsburgh scrambling for a new starter.
With so much at stake in these next few days, Wilson’s future could have notable ramifications across the league, and fans should keep a close watch as this story unfolds. The quarterback carousel is spinning, and Russell Wilson’s next move could redefine the landscape for several franchises.
