As the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare for their Wild Card matchup against the Baltimore Ravens, much of the focus is on the performance of their starting quarterback, Russell Wilson. Despite a rough end to the regular season, where the team closed with a four-game losing streak, Wilson’s presence under center remains crucial for the Steelers’ long-term success, particularly in the playoffs.
Pittsburgh had tremendous faith in Wilson, believing he could be the missing piece for an offense that has struggled since 2022. While his recent struggles have caused some doubts, his leadership and experience are more important than ever as the team faces a crucial postseason.
The Steelers’ decision to sign Wilson was motivated by their need for stability and a proven playmaker at the quarterback position. His track record of success was the selling point, with Pittsburgh hoping his veteran presence would elevate an offense that had faltered in recent seasons.
However, Wilson’s performance in the latter part of the 2024 campaign has led to questions about whether the front office overestimated his abilities. Over the final week of the regular season, Wilson posted just three touchdowns against two interceptions, totaling 856 passing yards.
Wilson's performance translated into only one win during this stretch, further contributing to the team’s struggles heading into the postseason. But a quarterback change this late in the process is not the answer.
Steelers cannot afford to make a QB switch before Wildcard Weekend
As the Steelers prepare for their primetime Wild Card game against the Ravens, there have been murmurs about potentially turning to backup quarterback Justin Fields for a change of pace. Fields, who initially catalyzed Arthur Smith’s offense, had moments of success earlier in the year.
However, throwing Fields into such a high-stakes game, especially on a short week, would be a risky and unfair move. The lack of preparation time for Fields to step in and face a fierce Ravens defense would likely do more harm than good. Mike Tomlin’s staff would be wise to resist the temptation to change quarterbacks in this elimination game.
Instead, the Steelers must continue to rely on Russell Wilson, as they planned when they signed him during the offseason. Despite the struggles, Wilson’s experience and leadership remain invaluable. Keeping Wilson as the starter allows Pittsburgh to evaluate his true value — a quarterback who has been to the Super Bowl and has the poise needed in big moments.
Relying on a veteran like Wilson, rather than opting for a raw alternative, will not only maintain the morale of the young gunslinger but also offer a better opportunity for success in the immediate future.
Even if the Steelers fail to secure a win against Baltimore, Wilson’s presence in the playoffs will offer invaluable lessons for the future, both in evaluating his role in the team’s trajectory and helping to guide Pittsburgh’s next steps toward redemption.
For the Steelers, sticking with Wilson could be the right move that prepares them for success, whether it leads to victory now or in the seasons to come.