As Russell Wilson faced criticism for being perceived as “fake,” a Pittsburgh Steelers legend cautioned him about the dangers of “glitz and glamour” while shedding light on the true reality of Pittsburgh.
Russell Wilson has a hard journey ahead! The QB’s move to the Pittsburgh Steelers was much-needed. After leaving the Seattle Seahawks, Russ joined the Denver Broncos in 2022. However, not all big moves work out and Wilson had the worst season of his career for the Broncos. But, after a decent 2023 season, the QB parted ways with the Mile High City. Though he is now a part of the Steelers setup, Wilson received a big warning from his now-teammate Cameron Heyward!
On July 11, 2024, Cam Heyward appeared on the ‘Up & Adams’ show, hosted by Kay Adams. The discussion inevitably moved toward the star quarterback, Russell Wilson. Adams asked Cam what being in the same camp with the Super Bowl-winning player was like. The defensive lineman revealed that he ran into Wilson even before the latter signed for the Steelers.
During their 2 hour conversations, Heyward apparently told Wilson, “This isn’t the place for glitz and glamor. It’s not LA, it’s not Atlanta. This is a place where the gladiators come and we’re gonna compete every day!” The comments seem quite interesting since the former NFL star T.J. Lang accused Russell Wilson of being “fake”! In 2022, Lang called Wilson’s ‘Subway’ commercial “the cringiest.” Not just Lang, but even NFL analyst Nick Wright echoed the same sentiment after Broncos’ DT Mike Purcell yelled at Wilson.
However, Cameron Heyward doesn’t seem too worried about Russ’ reputation. Apparently, Wilson was all for hard work! Not only is the QB “detail-oriented,” but Heyward also revealed that Wilson’s presence in the camp was a gift for all the youngsters in the franchise. “He’s gonna unlock a lot of stuff, not just for him, but I think for the team,” concluded Cameron Heyward.
The Steelers will require all the help that Russ can provide! After the three preseason games, The Black and Gold will kick off their regular season against the Falcons. Right after that, Wilson & Co will travel to Denver for their second game against the Broncos. Hence, the 35-year-old will definitely need to step up his game ahead of a grueling season. But, judging by his preseason shape, Russell Wilson is taking things to the next level.
Russell Wilson taps into the fountain of youth
Coming into the season, Russell Wilson has a lot of doubters to answer! At 35, can the veteran QB turn back the clock? Not many experts are willing to bet on it. However, the Ohio native trusts his abilities and has rediscovered his mojo. After the Steelers’ mandatory minicamp, Wilson added in a presser that he has found the ‘fountain of youth’. But that did not come easily.
In the offseason, Wilson took extreme measures to ensure he was at the height of his powers! Despite celebrating his 8th wedding anniversary with his wife Ciara Wilson, Russell kept on grinding and training football drills. On top of that, he also did some boxing workouts with acclaimed trainer Freddy Roach. So it does look like the hunger is still alive in the QB even after 12 seasons in the NFL.
With Cameron Heyward’s exciting update, the Steelers faithful will be waiting with bated breath to see what Russell Wilson can do for their team. Though Justin Fields is there, most NFL experts believe the nine-time pro bowler will be the starting QB. So, the stage is all set for Wilson to show the “gladiator” spirit!