Russell Wilson of the Steelers accidentally revealed what makes Pittsburgh so special

The Pittsburgh Steelers made a surprising move in the 2024 offseason by signing a quarterback Russell Wilson on a one-year minimum deal, veteran. Once a top quarterback in the NFL, Wilson struggled to regain his former dominance, managing just 11 wins in two seasons with the Denver Broncos. Arriving in Pittsburgh at the age of 35, Wilson is focused on reigniting his career and proving he is still among the league’s elite.

Wilson made his regular season debut under the bright lights of the Sunday night football against the New York Jets. Although the game started slowly for him, with scattered boos from the crowdWilson found his rhythm as the game progressed. He shrugged off the early pressure and led the Steelers to a commanding 37-15 victory, showing the resilience and leadership that once defined his career.

After the victory, Wilson joined The Rich Eisen Show to share his first impressions of Pittsburgh. He talked about the unique camaraderie within the team and the intensity of the fans, suggesting that Pittsburgh’s football culture reignited his love for the game. Wilson couldn’t help but start the interview talking about how great Steeler Nation is.

“Man, this stadium rocked,” Wilson told Rich Eisen. “I mean, obviously I got to play in Seattle, that stadium is cool, but this stadium, the towels, I’m just grateful to be able to play for another great organization … to be around great teammates and great players. It’s a special place. and we like it very much. Coach (Mike) Tomlin is unbelievable.

Since Ben RoethlisbergerUpon his retirement, the Steelers felt the absence of a strong leader on the field, especially on offense. While head coach Mike Tomlin is a master motivator who can maximize any roster, that player-driven spark on offense has been missing. With Wilson—and even Justin Fields— stepping in, that lead has grown as both defenders bring a dynamic presence to the team.

Wilson’s leadership, in particular, has been transformative, and Tomlin clearly appreciates it. In the recent game against the Jets, Wilson’s impact was on full display as he threw for 264 yards, two touchdowns and even rushed for one. His command of the offense set a new tone, helping the Steelers to a spirited 37-15 victory.

“These guys we can be around,” Wilson said. “It’s just a really close group. We go out to dinner every Thursday night and watch those games. The conversations, the laughs, the time we have, the bonding. It’s a special place and I’m just grateful that I get to play with these guys .”

This season’s Steelers have a different energy, perhaps due to the cultural change that Wilson ignited. His consistent drive and infectious drive have brought a renewed sense of purpose to Pittsburgh, giving fans plenty to be excited about. It’s not just Wilson, though — the entire team has brought fresh energy, likely fueled by their strong 5-2 start.

This Steelers team has a dominant defense, an impressive special teams unit and an offense that is starting to build some serious momentum. They start making noise like hidden competitors.

Fans are especially excited to see Wilson take the field again in prime time Monday night against the New York Giants. After a near flawless game against the Jets, Wilson will look to replicate that performance under the lights on Monday night.

Steelers’ Russell Wilson reveals team chemistry is at its peak

Wilson also revealed how close this team has become, sharing that they meet every Thursday night to watch the NFL game together and have dinner.

It’s clear that Wilson is the right fit to help this team out of its playoff drought, and his presence has re-energized a fan base hungry for success. If Wilson plays like he did against the Jets all season, then the Steelers will seriously be a tough matchup in the postseason.