After Russell Wilson went on the Pat McAfee Show stating his return to the Steelers was in the works, something broke in the news. His former head coach with Seattle just landed a new job with the Las Vegas Raiders. Pete Carroll is a well-respected coach who is starting to get towards retirement. Both Wilson and Carroll want to win football games next year.
The Raiders shared connections with both of Pittsburgh's quarterbacks this past offseason. They had interest in Wilson in free agency and Justin Fields in the trade market. Both players landed with the Steelers, but things will be different this year. Deciding between Wilson and Fields provides an impossible choice. One or another will be the starter next season.
On the surface, it makes sense to bring Fields back over Wilson for many reasons.
Fields is younger and provides more maneuverability for their offense. His youth could include a glimmer of hope regarding him progressing more as a stable starting quarterback. Neither Fields nor Wilson showed enough to enjoy a wealthy payday in free agency. Both should gain pay increases due to the lack of quality quarterbacks in the upcoming class in free agency.
Russell Wilson could leave Steelers to reunite with his former HC
According to Wilson, the Steelers have started discussions about a possible extension. That seems a little farfetched. Many who cover the team have projected Fields as the probable starter for next season. Neither Wilson nor Fields would provide much difference in the club's success, but Fields would give your offense a higher ceiling and lower floor.
Las Vegas should have plenty of phone calls waiting to recruit Wilson if he hits free agency. He might not be the player he once was, but he would provide experience and stability to a franchise that needs it. He is one of the most misunderstood players in the NFL. Wilson remains a quality leader and could help the Raiders remove their rebuilding phase.
READ MORE: Making the case for Steelers to keep Russell Wilson and Justin Fields in 2025
Wilson and Carroll's relationship remains strong. They were together from 2012 to 2021 with the Seahawks. They went to two Super Bowls in that time and won one of them. That level of success is not easy to replicate, but these two parties could find comfort with each other. The upcoming NFL Draft doesn't have much talent at the position, so adding Wilson would be wise.
Fans of the Steelers are desperate to get Wilson out of the building. He was a key reason Pittsburgh witnessed their five-game collapse to end the campaign. Fields appears to be the better choice for the starting job on paper, but he would provide little difference in the outcome of games. The Raiders should sign Wilson to provide stability and create a more competitive atmosphere.