Steelers defensive end Cameron Heyward knows that quarterback has been a weak spot for his team since the departure of Big Ben Roethlisberger. So when the team was able to add Russell Wilson this offseason the six-time Pro Bowler was thrilled.
During a recent appearance on the “Rich Eisen Show,” Heyward admitted that Pittsburgh was “losing quarterbacks left and right” before signing Wilson. But he loves what the Super Bowl champ brings to the Steelers QB room.
“You just look for the leadership he’s had,” Heyward said. “A guy who’s been in Seattle, who’s won games, won the Super Bowl already. Didn’t have the best time in Denver, but I think he’s a hungry guy who’s ready to prove a lot of people wrong.”
“I think on the opposite side of the ball, we have so many great weapons,” the veteran continued. “Some of them are younger so having a more established guy who has been through it is gonna benefit the group.”
Heyward was asked if he thinks the 35-year-old QB can still be the triggerman of a dynamic offense or if Russ is more of a game manager at this stage of his career. But the defensive captain doesn’t see why Wilson can’t be both.
“I think it can be a blend of both,” he explained. “I think he can have a balance, game to game, and excel. Not many people beat Patrick Mahomes last year, but Russell Wilson and the Denver Broncos did. I know it’s not one guy that gets it done, but Russ has done it in this game and knows how to beat top competition.”
Wilson started his career with nine Pro Bowl selections in his first 10 years in Seattle but could never quite get things going as a Bronco. He’ll look to change his fortunes in the Steel City this season.