Russell Wilson Gets a Two-Year, $245 Million Extension from Pittsburgh Steelers, Making Him the Highest-Paid Quarterback in NFL History and Securing His Legacy with One of the League’s Most Storied Franchises
In an unexpected turn of events, Russell Wilson, the former Super Bowl champion and long-time Denver Broncos quarterback, has signed a jaw-dropping two-year, $245 million extension with the Pittsburgh Steelers, a deal that not only makes him the highest-paid quarterback in NFL history but also secures his future with one of the most prestigious franchises in football. The contract, which was officially announced today by Steelers’ General Manager Omar Khan, is set to keep Wilson in Pittsburgh through the 2027 NFL season, significantly altering the dynamics of the AFC and the Steelers’ aspirations for the future.
Wilson, 34, who spent the majority of his career with the Seattle Seahawks before a high-profile trade to the Denver Broncos in 2022, found himself on the open market after a tumultuous two seasons in Denver. Despite showing flashes of his former MVP-level play, he struggled with consistency and leadership under head coach Nathaniel Hackett, culminating in a disappointing 2024 season that saw the Broncos fail to make the playoffs. Following the firing of Hackett and the hiring of Sean Payton, it was clear that Wilson’s future in Denver was uncertain.
In the midst of the uncertainty, Wilson found an unexpected opportunity in Pittsburgh. The Steelers, known for their stable franchise leadership and rich history of success, had been quietly searching for a franchise quarterback to lead the team into a new era following the retirement of Ben Roethlisberger. With an aging roster and a need for a veteran presence at quarterback, the Steelers, led by head coach Mike Tomlin, made their move to acquire Wilson.
“We believe Russell is the perfect fit for what we are trying to accomplish here in Pittsburgh,” said Tomlin during the press conference announcing the extension. “He brings leadership, a championship pedigree, and an ability to make plays when it matters most. We’re excited for the future of this franchise with Russell leading our offense.”
For Wilson, the move to Pittsburgh represents a fresh start with a team that has a storied history of success but has also struggled to find consistency at quarterback since Roethlisberger’s departure. His immediate impact is expected to be substantial, as he inherits a talented roster that includes standout wide receiver Diontae Johnson, emerging star George Pickens, and a strong defense led by T.J. Watt. The Steelers have long been known for their dominant defense, and now with Wilson at the helm of the offense, they are poised to return to championship contention.
The $245 million extension includes a record-breaking $140 million in guaranteed money, eclipsing the previous record set by Patrick Mahomes. Wilson’s base salary for the first year of the extension is set at $40 million, with performance incentives and bonuses that could push his total earnings for the first year of the deal well above $50 million.
“Joining the Steelers is an incredible honor,” Wilson said in a statement released by his agent. “This is a franchise with incredible history, incredible fans, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. I can’t wait to get started, and I am ready to do whatever it takes to bring another championship to Pittsburgh.”
The move has immediate implications for both the AFC North division and the NFL at large. The Steelers are now firmly positioned as one of the favorites in the AFC, a team with a capable quarterback to lead them in the postseason. With Wilson’s experience and leadership, the Steelers are looking to build a future of sustained success. Meanwhile, the Broncos and other AFC teams will be watching closely to see how this high-profile move plays out, and whether Wilson’s transition to Pittsburgh will be the spark the Steelers need to return to the top of the NFL.
As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on the Pittsburgh Steelers as they embark on this new chapter with one of the league’s most talented and accomplished quarterbacks under center.
