Russell Wilson is set to join the New York Giants after agreeing to a one-year contract, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The veteran quarterback’s deal is reportedly worth up to $21 million, with $10.5 million guaranteed.
Wilson, now 36, spent the 2024 season with the Pittsburgh Steelers on a one-year, $1.21 million contract. Despite his modest salary from Pittsburgh, he was still owed $37.79 million from the Denver Broncos following his release. After the season, Wilson reiterated his desire to continue playing for as long as possible, maintaining his previous statement that he hopes to remain in the league for another five to seven years.
ESPN Sources: The Giants and Super Bowl-winning QB Russell Wilson reached agreement today on a one-year deal worth up to $21 million, including $10.5 million guaranteed. The 10-time Pro-Bowl selection had been in discussions with the Giants, Browns and Steelers, but is opting for… pic.twitter.com/ZjjOz0U7bl
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 25, 2025
His tenure in Pittsburgh began under unique circumstances. Wilson joined the Steelers in the offseason after being cut by the Broncos but initially found himself in a backup role. A preseason calf injury contributed to him starting the year behind Justin Fields on the depth chart. However, when the Steelers struggled offensively, Wilson was named the starter in Week 7 and held the position for the rest of the regular season. He also led the team into the playoffs, where they suffered a 28-14 wild-card round defeat to the Baltimore Ravens.
Wilson’s arrival initially provided a boost for Pittsburgh. The team won its first four games with him under center, but momentum faded down the stretch as the Steelers lost five of their final seven regular-season contests, including four straight to close out the campaign. Despite the team’s struggles, Wilson put up respectable numbers. In his 11 regular-season starts, he completed 63.7% of his passes, averaging 225.6 passing yards per game while throwing for 16 touchdowns against five interceptions. In the Steelers’ playoff loss to the Ravens, Wilson was efficient, completing 20 of 29 passes for 270 yards, two touchdowns, and no turnovers.
Although Wilson’s performance in Pittsburgh was an improvement over his turbulent tenure in Denver, it was not enough to convince the Steelers to keep him as their long-term solution at quarterback. His time with the Broncos ended in disappointment, leading to his release despite the organization taking a massive salary cap hit. While he showed flashes of his former Pro Bowl self with the Steelers, there was little indication that he could lead Pittsburgh—or any team—back into serious Super Bowl contention.
Now, Wilson will get a fresh start in New York, where the Giants are looking to add stability at the quarterback position. With Daniel Jones’ future uncertain due to injuries and inconsistent play, the Giants are likely hoping that Wilson can provide veteran leadership and experience under center. Whether he can rediscover the form that made him a star with the Seattle Seahawks remains to be seen, but the move signals New York’s interest in finding a short-term answer while they evaluate their long-term quarterback situation.
Wilson’s journey has been full of ups and downs, but with another opportunity in front of him, he’ll look to prove he still has plenty left in the tank as he begins this new chapter with the Giants.