Russell Wilson of the Pittsburgh Steelers Struggles and Career Expectations in NFL

2024 NFL Fantasy Football Preview: The Pittsburgh Steelers and Russell Wilson with Betting Insights

The 2024 NFL season brings a new chapter for Wilson, who finds himself in Pittsburgh after an unceremonious exit from Denver. Once a top-tier quarterback, Wilson’s decline in recent years has been stark, and now, with the Steelers, the questions loom: Is he washed up, or does he still have something left in the tank? Let’s explore what this means for fantasy football managers and bettors as we dive into Wilson’s prospects and the Steelers’ outlook for the season.

Russell Wilson: A Declining Star in a New Setting

Wilson’s journey to Pittsburgh is emblematic of a career at a crossroads. After his rocky tenure in Denver, where Sean Payton attempted to reshape his approach without success, Wilson now faces a fresh start under Mike Tomlin. Despite the optimism that often accompanies a change of scenery, early indications suggest that Wilson may struggle to reclaim his former glory.

From a fantasy football perspective, Wilson is no longer the sure bet he once was. His performance in Pittsburgh’s preseason and training camp has done little to inspire confidence, leading to concerns that his best days are behind him. While Wilson was once a reliable QB1, capable of both passing and rushing production, the 2024 version of Wilson looks like a low-end QB2 at best. His deep ball accuracy has waned, and his mobility, once a hallmark of his game, seems diminished.

Fantasy managers should approach Wilson with caution. If you’re in a superflex league or one that values quarterback depth, he might be worth a late-round pick, but he’s far from a must-start. In standard leagues, Wilson is a risky proposition, better suited as a backup option or a bye-week fill-in rather than a weekly starter. His name recognition might entice some, but savvy managers will weigh the risks before investing too heavily.

Steelers’ Offensive Outlook: Challenges Ahead

The Steelers’ decision to bring in Wilson was a low-risk, potentially high-reward move, especially given the veteran minimum salary they’re paying him. However, the early returns are not promising. Despite the presence of promising talents like Najee Harris, George Pickens, and Diontae Johnson, the Steelers’ offense may struggle if Wilson can’t elevate his play.

Najee Harris remains the centerpiece of the Steelers’ offense, and his role could expand if the passing game falters. Harris is a solid RB1, particularly in PPR formats where his pass-catching ability boosts his value. However, the receivers could suffer from Wilson’s inconsistency. George Pickens and Van Jefferson have the talent to be productive, but their week-to-week reliability may be compromised if Wilson continues to struggle. Both should be viewed as WR2/3 options, with a higher ceiling if Wilson finds some rhythm but a lower floor if he doesn’t.

Betting Insights: Managing Expectations

The Steelers’ win total for the 2024 season is set at 8.5, reflecting tempered expectations in a tough AFC North. With Wilson at the helm, this number could be optimistic. If Wilson can’t rediscover his form, the Steelers might struggle to reach even eight wins, making the under a potentially profitable bet.

For those looking at player props, Wilson’s passing yards and touchdowns might be best approached with caution. Given his recent form, betting the under on his season totals could be a wise move. The Steelers’ reliance on Harris and a conservative game plan might limit Wilson’s opportunities to put up significant numbers, especially if the team pivots to a more run-heavy approach.

Conclusion: Time to Adjust Expectations

Wilson’s move to Pittsburgh is a fascinating storyline, but it’s one that comes with significant uncertainty. The days of Wilson being a top fantasy quarterback are likely over, and fantasy managers should adjust their expectations accordingly. While he may still have moments of brilliance, they will likely be few and far between.

For the Steelers, this season could be one of transition, with Wilson serving as a bridge quarterback rather than a long-term solution. Betting on the Steelers should be done with a clear understanding of the risks involved, particularly if Wilson continues to struggle. The under on their win total and on Wilson’s player props may offer value to those who anticipate a difficult season in Pittsburgh.

Ultimately, Wilson’s 2024 campaign will be a test of whether he can adapt to the realities of being a 35-year-old quarterback in the NFL. For now, though, it’s safer to assume that Wilson’s best days are behind him, both for fantasy football and in the betting market.

You can read all about what’s going on in the National Football League at SportsGrid.com.