When the Pittsburgh Steelers’ 2023 season took a downturn late in the year, it not only dashed their playoff hopes but may have also altered their quarterback plans in a major way. According to The Athletic’s Mark Kaboly, there were “rumblings” that the Steelers had considered using the transition tag on veteran quarterback Russell Wilson before their season-ending struggles.
The idea of bringing in Wilson, who was facing an uncertain future with the Denver Broncos, may have gained traction as Pittsburgh evaluated its quarterback situation. Kenny Pickett, who was drafted in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft, had yet to establish himself as the franchise’s long-term answer under center. Meanwhile, backup quarterbacks Mason Rudolph and Mitch Trubisky failed to provide consistent production when called upon.
However, the Steelers’ late-season collapse may have forced the front office to reconsider their approach. After a promising start, the team stumbled in crucial matchups, exposing several key weaknesses that went beyond the quarterback position. The offensive line struggled to protect its passers, and the team’s inconsistent play-calling led to inefficiencies in both the passing and running games. By the time the season ended, the idea of investing heavily in a veteran quarterback like Wilson became less appealing.
The transition tag, which would have given the Steelers the ability to match any contract offer Wilson received in free agency, was seen as a potential way to secure a proven veteran without committing to a long-term deal immediately. However, with Wilson’s stock dropping due to his inconsistent play in Denver and Pittsburgh’s own late-season shortcomings, the front office may have shifted its focus toward alternative solutions, including exploring other free-agent options, drafting a quarterback, or sticking with Pickett in hopes of his continued development.
Wilson’s future remains uncertain, as does the Steelers’ approach to the quarterback position. If the rumors were true, it’s possible that had the Steelers finished the season strong, they might have been more aggressive in pursuing Wilson. Instead, their disappointing finish may have reshaped their priorities heading into the offseason, forcing them to reconsider whether a short-term veteran solution is the right path forward.
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