In a turn of events that could only be described as poetic justice, Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson found himself at the center of attention without even stepping onto the field during Week 2’s game against the Denver Broncos. Despite his absence from the lineup, Wilson walked away with a symbolic victory in hand – a “petty” game ball.
The Steelers’ starting quarterback, Justin Fields, led the team to a hard-fought 13-6 win over the Broncos, fueling the fire of vengeance that burned within the Pittsburgh squad. Fields revealed to reporters that the Steelers felt Denver had treated Wilson unfairly in the past, prompting them to play with an extra layer of motivation. As a result, Wilson and two other former Broncos players were presented with the coveted “petty” game ball by head coach Mike Tomlin, a gesture reserved for players who triumph over their former teams.
“I think we all know Russ got did dirty last year, so I know he couldn’t play today in this game, but it was awesome getting that win for him. He got a petty game ball,” Fields remarked after the game, showcasing the team’s deep-rooted respect and admiration for Wilson.
Wilson’s journey in Denver was marked by highs and lows, as he accumulated impressive statistics but struggled to secure wins for the team. Despite throwing for over 6,500 yards and racking up 42 touchdowns, Wilson’s tenure in Denver was short-lived, marred by inconsistent performances and a lackluster win record. This ultimately led to his departure from the team after just two seasons, following a blockbuster trade from the Seattle Seahawks.
As Sunday’s matchup against the Broncos approached, Wilson was ruled inactive due to a lingering calf injury sustained during training camp. While he eagerly anticipates his return to the field, Wilson continues to work towards regaining full health in preparation for his debut with the Steelers. The 35-year-old veteran is poised to potentially make his first start against the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 3, although he may face stiff competition from Fields, who has impressively led the Steelers to a 2-0 start.
In the midst of uncertainty and anticipation, one thing remains certain – Russell Wilson’s impact on the Pittsburgh Steelers transcends the boundaries of the playing field, as his presence looms large over the team’s quest for greatness in the upcoming season.
