The 2024 NFL free agency frenzy kicked off one day early this year with the news that former Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson had agreed to sign with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The move brought plenty of reactions from fans, media and players. But one name that bought into the Russ-Pittsburgh pairing is former Philadelphia Eagles seven-time Pro Bowler Jason Kelce.
Kelce discussed the start of free agency with brother and Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce on the latest episode of the New Heights podcast.
[2024 NFL Free Agency: Latest News & Analysis]
Both Kelce brothers agreed that Wilson joining the Steelers is a strong move for both sides, and Jason called the quarterback the “missing piece” for the storied franchise.
“Russell gets to start fresh here in Pittsburgh. He’s had proven success in his past,” Jason said. “This is like the only missing piece right now in Pittsburgh. If Russ is even close to the quarterback he used to be, this is a extremely dangerous team with what they’re working with on the defensive side of the ball.”
Travis agreed with that opinion and even went as far as backing Wilson’s play in Denver.
“I don’t even know about what he used to be. He was still ballin’ in Denver at times, man,” Travis said of Wilson. “I’ve seen him dice up some teams and make some good throws. I mean, we lost to Denver, I think in Denver last year.”
Wilson’s numbers were unquestionably down compared to his time with the Seattle Seahawks. He posted an 11–19 record while throwing for 6,594 yards and completed 63.3% of his passes. Wilson threw 42 touchdowns and had 19 interceptions, but his numbers were drastically improved from his first year to his second in Denver, as he tallied 10 more passing scores.
