“I expect to be the starter”: Russell Wilson breaks silence on Giants’ offseason wait for Aaron Rodgers before signing him as QB1 | NFL News

The Pittsburgh Steelers’ quarterback search this offseason has been nothing short of intriguing, with Russell Wilson ultimately finding a new home with the New York Giants. While the Steelers considered Wilson as an option, he was never their first—or even second—choice. Their primary focus remained on Aaron Rodgers, and despite missing out on other quarterbacks like Justin Fields and Sam Darnold, their pursuit of the four-time NFL MVP has not wavered.

Giants’ QB dilemma: Russell Wilson speaks on team’s offseason wait for Aaron Rodgers before his signing

With the Steelers holding out for Aaron Rodgers, Russell Wilson made the decision to move forward, signing a one-year deal with the New York Giants. His move came amid the Giants’ own uncertainty regarding Rodgers, as they appeared to have been weighing both quarterbacks before officially securing Wilson. For Wilson, this was an opportunity to start fresh, and during his introductory press conference, he remained focused on what lies ahead.
“Aaron Rodgers is a tremendous football player,” Wilson stated via The Athletic’s Charlotte Carroll. “I’m focused on right now. What we can do here. That’s been my focus.”
While Wilson had expressed interest in staying in Pittsburgh, the Steelers’ hesitation ultimately pushed him toward New York. His role with the Giants now seems clear, as he has set his sights on leading the team as their starting quarterback for the upcoming season.
“I expect to be the starter and to be able to come here and rock and roll every day,” Wilson said during a Zoom call on Wednesday. “I think this team’s really looking for somebody to lead them in every way — in terms of the process, in the offseason, during the season, our habits and our thought process and how we create a great winning culture.”
With Wilson, Jameis Winston, and Tommy DeVito on the roster, the Giants seem to have closed the door on any possibility of bringing in Rodgers. Wilson, a 10-time Pro Bowl selection, is coming off a season with the Steelers in which he threw for 2,482 yards, 16 touchdowns, and five interceptions with a 96.5 passer rating. Despite a promising start, Pittsburgh struggled down the stretch, losing five of their last six games.
Meanwhile, the Steelers’ patience with Rodgers remains steadfast. After missing out on Fields and Darnold, Pittsburgh made Rodgers their top target, putting an offer on the table. Though Rodgers has yet to make a decision, the Steelers believe they are the best fit for the veteran quarterback.
The Minnesota Vikings have also been linked to Rodgers, but no firm commitment has been made. At 41 years old, retirement remains an option for the legendary quarterback, yet the Steelers are willing to wait in hopes of making Rodgers their third starting QB in as many years.
Should Rodgers ultimately land in Pittsburgh, it would mark a dramatic shift for the franchise, solidifying their belief that they are just a quarterback away from serious contention. Meanwhile, Wilson will be under the microscope in New York, with every aspect of his performance being compared to what could have been in Pittsburgh.
Also Read: With Russell Wilson in New York, is Aaron Rodgers finally heading to the Steelers?
Though Wilson and the Steelers are now on different paths, one thing is certain: the 2025 NFL season will be closely watched as both teams navigate their quarterback situations in pursuit of success.