Steelers’ Russell Wilson found ‘fountain of youth’ as QB competition heats up

Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson is heading into his 13th season in the NFL during which he will turn 36.

However, Wilson, who signed with the team on a one-year deal in March, revealed he’s felt rejuvenated since coming to Pittsburgh.

“I feel the fountain of youth, man. I feel revived in every way, mentally, emotionally, spiritually. I feel confident,” Wilson said. “I think right now, I have all that confidence times 10. So I just use it all.”

That’s exactly what the Steelers are hoping to hear after Wilson had a disappointing two seasons (11-19) in Denver.

The Broncos wanted to move on from Wilson so much that they decided it was worth paying him $37.79 million to not play for them this season.

Wilson finished the 2023 season on the bench, but he still ended the year with twice as many touchdowns (26) and fewer interceptions (eight) than all three of Pittsburgh’s starting quarterbacks (Kenny Pickett, Mason Rudolph and Mitchell Trubisky) combined.

That, combined with his experience and leadership is why he’s the favorite to be the Steelers starter come Week 1.

“Russ is in the pole position,” offensive coordinator Arthur Smith said. “It’s a competition, obviously. Once we get to Latrobe, I’m sure things will heat up. Both of those guys knew that however they were acquired.”