The Pittsburgh Steelers are in the midst of a challenging stretch, having lost their last few games, including a disappointing defeat to the Kansas City Chiefs. A key player under scrutiny during this tough period is quarterback Russell Wilson, whose recent performances have raised doubts about his ability to lead the team to victory. With mistakes piling up—particularly costly turnovers—should the Steelers continue to trust Wilson, or is it time for a change?
The Struggles in Kansas City: A Tough Day for Wilson
In the loss against the Chiefs, Wilson’s performance was far from impressive. Early in the game, a red zone fumble and later an interception were critical in putting the Steelers at a disadvantage. These mistakes came at the worst possible times, and the turnover battle, which has been a trademark of the Steelers’ success under head coach Mike Tomlin, was lost once again. Wilson’s inability to perform in high-pressure situations is troubling, especially considering how pivotal the quarterback position is for a team’s success.
Wilson has faced criticism for not executing well when the team needed him most. At 36 years old, he no longer possesses the same athleticism that allowed him to escape pressure and make big plays in his prime. In the past, Wilson could improvise and create something out of nothing, but his ability to do that has diminished as he ages. In the loss to the Chiefs, several plays were opportunities where the old Russell Wilson would have been able to extend the play, but instead, he was sacked or forced into bad decisions.
The Bigger Problem: Offensive Line and Supporting Cast
While it’s easy to point the finger at Wilson for the Steelers’ struggles, the reality is that his poor performance is part of a bigger issue. The Pittsburgh offensive line has been underperforming all season, and in the game against Kansas City, Wilson was under constant pressure. Even the best quarterbacks struggle when they’re not given time to make decisions. Wilson’s lack of protection has contributed significantly to his struggles.
Moreover, the running game has been inconsistent, with Najee Harris failing to become the reliable back the Steelers had hoped for. Without a strong running game to balance the offense, Wilson is left trying to carry too much of the load himself, which often leads to mistakes as he tries to press and make plays that aren’t there. Additionally, the absence of star wide receiver George Pickens for a couple of games further depleted the Steelers’ receiving options, leaving Wilson without a reliable target to help move the chains.
Can Wilson Still Lead the Steelers to Victory?
Despite the recent struggles, I believe that Russell Wilson should still be trusted as the starting quarterback for the Steelers. His experience and leadership are invaluable, especially for a team with playoff aspirations. Yes, his mobility is not what it used to be, and yes, his recent turnover problems have been concerning, but Wilson is still a capable quarterback.
However, for Wilson to be successful, he needs a solid supporting cast around him. The Steelers need to improve their offensive line play, get back to a more consistent running game, and ensure that the defense plays at a higher level. The biggest issue right now isn’t Wilson himself—it’s the fact that the team isn’t playing up to its traditional standards of defense and running the ball. When those aspects of the game aren’t clicking, it places too much pressure on the quarterback, which has led to Wilson pressing and making mistakes.
The Future of Wilson in Pittsburgh
Looking forward, Wilson may not be the long-term solution for the Steelers at quarterback, but he is still the best option they have right now. The team should give him the opportunity to regain his form and show that he can perform in a more balanced system. If the offensive line can give him more time and the running game can find its rhythm, Wilson will have the chance to get back to playing the way the Steelers need him to.
However, if the Steelers’ struggles continue and Wilson’s mistakes remain a constant issue, the team may need to start considering their options for the future. But for now, with the playoffs still within reach, the Steelers should stick with Wilson as their quarterback and focus on fixing the issues around him.
Conclusion: Trusting Wilson Despite Recent Struggles
While Russell Wilson’s performance in the loss to the Chiefs was underwhelming, the Steelers should continue to trust him as their starting quarterback. His experience, leadership, and ability to make plays when supported by a strong team still make him a valuable asset. However, the Steelers must address their offensive line issues, improve the running game, and get back to their defensive roots if they want to compete at the highest level. Wilson’s future with the Steelers may depend on how well the team can improve in these areas, but for now, he remains the best option to lead them through the remainder of the season.
