The Pittsburgh Steelers continued their promising start to the NFL season with a gritty 13-6 victory over the Denver Broncos in Week 2. However, the narrative surrounding this game wasn't just about the scoreboard but also about the missing presence of star quarterback Russell Wilson, sidelined due to a persistent calf injury.
Wilson, who has been battling the injury since just before the start of training camp, was unable to suit up for the matchup. This setback not only kept him out of the Week 2 contest but also sidelined him for Pittsburgh’s season opener. Despite these challenges, the Steelers have managed to maintain their perfect record, now standing at 2-0.
Calf Injury Keeps Wilson on the Sidelines
The nagging calf injury has been a significant obstacle for Wilson since the early days of training camp. This persistent ailment forced him to miss the first two games of the season, a blow to both the player and his team. Nonetheless, Wilson remains a pivotal figure on the sidelines, offering support and guidance to his teammates. His leadership was recognized and valued by the team, as evidenced by his role as a captain, a position he was voted into by his new Pittsburgh teammates over the summer.
Support and Reflection from Teammates
Justin Fields, reflecting on Wilson’s situation, emphasized the respect and empathy within the team. "Everyone knows Russ got done dirty," Fields remarked, acknowledging the unfortunate circumstances surrounding Wilson’s injury. He added, "I know he wishes he could have played in this game today," underlining Wilson’s desire to be on the field contributing directly to the team’s success.
A New Chapter in Pittsburgh
Wilson's move to the Steelers marks a new chapter after a successful and storied tenure with the Seattle Seahawks. His time in Seattle was marked by significant achievements, including a Super Bowl victory, two NFC titles, and nine Pro Bowl selections. However, his transition to the Denver Broncos last season didn’t go as smoothly. A disappointing debut season with the Broncos culminated in the dismissal of head coach Nathaniel Hackett, highlighting the challenges Wilson faced.
Interestingly, the Broncos made a notable financial decision regarding Wilson, agreeing to pay him $39 million to not play for them in 2024. This move underlines the complicated and costly nature of NFL contracts and team strategies.
Stellar Beginnings Despite Setbacks
Despite the hurdles, the Steelers have made a strong start to the season, winning both of their opening games. Wilson’s influence is still felt off the field, where he has led several non-team-affiliated workouts with the Steelers' offense during the summer, showcasing his commitment and leadership.
As the season progresses, the Steelers will undoubtedly look forward to having their star quarterback back in action. For now, though, his presence on the sidelines and the support he offers is invaluable. While Wilson was not on the field, he was presented with a game ball after the final whistle, a testament to his unwavering spirit and the respect he commands within the team.
Wilson’s journey with Pittsburgh has just begun, and his impact is already palpable. The Steelers, riding the wave of a perfect start, continue to show resilience and determination as they aim to build on their early successes. Wilson’s return will be eagerly anticipated, not just by teammates and coaches, but by fans hoping to see him replicate the brilliance he once displayed in Seattle.