Russell Wilson (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images)
If Justin Fields hold on to the Pittsburgh Steelers’ starting quarterback job, it only makes sense to move Russell Wilson to another QB-needy team before the Nov. 5 trade deadline.
Both Justin Fields and Russell Wilson are in contract years. But the former is 11 years younger and has done his job behind center, leading the Steelers to a 3-0 start while Wilson works his way back from a calf injury.
Should Fields continue to shine, the Steelers will find themselves with one of the league’s most valuable trade deadline candidates in Wilson.
Just look at how many teams need immediate QB help, namely the Miami Dolphins (Tua Tagovailoa is sidelined with a concussion), Cleveland Browns (Deshaun Watson is struggling mightily) and Las Vegas Raiders (Aidan O’Connell and Gardner Minshew II don’t inspire much confidence).
But no playoff-hopeful team is more desperate for short-term QB help than Miami. Skylar Thompson and Tim Boyle leave a lot to be desired, whereas a 35-year-old Russell Wilson could easily step in and maximize a supporting cast led by Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, Raheem Mostert and De’Von Achane.
#Steelers QB Russell Wilson (calf) continuing to work his way back. pic.twitter.com/LJCIusICKi
— Aaron Becker (@Aaron_M_Becker) September 25, 2024
The Dolphins don’t know when Tagovailoa may return from injury. They’re in win-now mode with stars like Hill, Waddle, Mostert, Jalen Ramsey, Jaelan Phillips and Jevon Holland in their primes. GM Chris Grier can’t give up on the season just because of lackluster backup QB options, so he should have Russell Wilson atop his wish list now.
What Dolphins Should Offer Steelers For Russell Wilson
Miami should offer Pittsburgh Skylar Thompson (the Steelers will want backup QB insurance) and a conditional 2026 fourth-round pick (the Dolphins’ 2025 third-rounder belongs to the Philadelphia Eagles) that can become a third based on playing time in exchange for Russell Wilson.
The Dolphins can simply look at the Green Bay Packers as inspiration. By ensuring they had a competent backup QB option in Malik Willis, the Packers have saved their season while Jordan Love recovers from a knee injury. Wilson can be a quality short-term option to keep Miami in the postseason race while they await Tagovailoa’s return.
