Russell Wilson claims he paved the way for other African-American QBs like Patrick Mahomes by going to back-to-back Super Bowls

Russell Wilson and Patrick Mahomes (Via The Seattle Times)

Russell Wilson does not shy away from showcasing his achievements publicly. After gracing the cover of Essence Magazine as the sexiest man in the world, Wilson made a bold claim directed to the other quarterbacks with Afro-American origins.

In indirect words, Russell Willson asked for a ‘Thank You’ for the likes of Patrick Mahomes, Lamar Jackson, and others dominating the NFL. Mahomes has dominated the NFL in recent times with six straight AFC Championship appearances. Wilson believed the journey of these quarterbacks started after he raised the bar by reaching back-to-back Super Bowls.

For me to be able to go to back-to-back Super Bowls and win one of them, I think opened up a lot of doors. Now you see guys like Patrick Mahomes who won it; it's really just us so far, but there's more to come.

Russell Wilson via Outkick

The best stint of Russell Wilson came in the colors of the Seattle Seahawks. He won the Super Bowl in the 2014 season. In the next season, the QB fell an inch short of winning as his throw was intercepted at the line. In the 2014 season, he threw 20 touchdowns and seven interceptions in the regular season for more than 3,400 yards. He was more clinical in the next season with 34 touchdowns with just eight interceptions for more than 4,000 yards of passing. The quarterback was at his level best in those two seasons.

Wilson and his impact on the Seahawks definitely impacted the NFL. However, taking full credit for himself when quarterbacks like Michael Vick, Steve McNair, and others came before might anger the fanbase. However, Wilson was the first one to take his team to back-to-back Super Bowls. As such, he did impact the NFL, but not as much as he claimed he did.

Russell Wilson eyes to get back form after miserable spell with the Broncos

Despite the skyrocketing success with the Seahawks, the quarterback found himself in trouble after the 2021 season. The Denver Broncos signed him ahead of the 2022 season to achieve new heights. However, the Broncos failed massively, and Wilson became the scapegoat for the failures.
Russell Wilson's new contract: How much will the Steelers pay the QB following Broncos exit?Russell Wilson (Image via IMAGO)
In the second season, the quarterback was in more trouble, often indulging in tussles with the head coach, Sean Payton. During games, the coach shouted at the quarterback. Wilson came with huge expectations, but he did not fit well with Payton. The relationship between Wilson and Payton became the talking point in media circles. Many, including Ryan Clark criticized Payton for demoralizing Wilson. At the end of the 2023/24 season, the Broncos cut all ties.

To get the form back, the 35-year-old veteran joined the Pittsburgh Steelers. With his experience, he can be the game-changer for the Steelers in the coming time. The Steelers have a good roster and required a great quarterback play to make strides in the post-season. The team could provide Wilson with a much-needed confidence boost and help him win another Super Bowl ring, which he long desired.