Russell Wilson Teams: What’s Next for the Veteran QB After Free Agency Begins
Russell Wilson teams have included the Seattle Seahawks, Denver Broncos, Pittsburgh Steelers, and most recently the New York Giants, and now as free agency gets underway for the 2026 NFL season, the veteran quarterback is preparing for the next chapter of his career. Wilson, 37, is entering the offseason without a contract after his one-year deal with the Giants ended, and he has made it clear he intends to continue playing in the league in some capacity.
After a mixed 2025 campaign in New York where he opened the season as the starter but soon lost playing time, Wilson is exploring opportunities to contribute to a new roster as teams consider veteran leadership and depth at the quarterback position.
NFL fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see where Wilson might land and how his experience across multiple franchises could influence a club’s plans.
Veteran Quarterback Eyes Continued NFL Career in 2026
After completing the 2025 NFL season with the New York Giants, Wilson enters free agency in March with his next destination not yet determined. He began the season as the Giants’ starting quarterback, but after a slow start he was moved down the depth chart in favor of younger talent. Over six appearances with New York, Wilson compiled modest statistics, playing in a backup role by the end of the year.
Despite the challenges of his 2025 season, Wilson has openly stated that he plans to keep playing in 2026 rather than stepping away from professional football. He switched agents in the offseason, a move that signals his commitment to securing a roster spot for the upcoming league year and finding a team where he can add value either as a starter, mentor, or experienced backup.
A Storied NFL Career Across Four Franchises
Wilson’s NFL journey began when he was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in 2012. Over nearly a decade with Seattle, he established himself as one of the league’s most successful quarterbacks, leading the franchise to multiple playoff appearances, division titles, and a Super Bowl victory. His tenure with the Seahawks is remembered for consistency, leadership, and dynamic playmaking.
In 2022, Wilson was traded to the Denver Broncos, beginning the next phase of his career. While with Denver, he displayed flashes of effectiveness but was ultimately unable to replicate his Seahawks-era success. After two seasons in Denver, Wilson signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers for the 2024 season, where he continued to showcase veteran savvy and earned a Pro Bowl selection despite a team that was still finding its identity.
The 2025 season saw Wilson in New York with the Giants, where he initially started before a rookie quarterback took over under center. Now a free agent, Wilson’s resume reflects experience with four NFL teams and a career that has spanned well over a decade.
Teams Potentially Interested in the Veteran Signal-Caller
As teams prepare for the 2026 season, several franchises are believed to be evaluating Wilson as a potential addition. While nothing has been finalized, quarterbacks of Wilson’s experience are often considered valuable for roster depth and leadership, especially in systems with younger passers developing under contract.
Among the clubs mentioned in offseason discussions as logical fits are those that could benefit from a seasoned presence in the quarterback room. For example, teams seeking mentorship for up-and-coming starters might view Wilson as a stabilizing force who can guide less experienced quarterbacks while also being ready to step in when needed.
Other organizations looking to bolster their depth charts or bring in a proven competitor to push for playing time could also take interest. Where Wilson ultimately signs will depend on how his skills align with a team’s offensive philosophy and long-term roster strategy.
What Wilson Brings Beyond Stats
Innate leadership, postseason experience, and a deep understanding of complex offensive schemes are among the qualities Wilson offers that extend beyond traditional statistics. His career includes multiple Pro Bowl selections and prolonged success both as a starter in Seattle and as a respected veteran elsewhere.
Even in seasons where the win-loss record didn’t favor his team, Wilson’s presence in the locker room and his preparation habits are often cited as assets that transcend on-field results. For teams with young quarterbacks looking to grow in pro football, Wilson’s background could be especially valuable in a mentorship or backup quarterback role.
Legacy and Long-Term Impact on the League
While Wilson’s peak years remain rooted in his time with the Seahawks, his overall body of work spans four NFL franchises and a career marked by resilience and adaptation. His early career achievements helped define the Seahawks’ identity and brought a Super Bowl title to the franchise, while his later years demonstrated his willingness to embrace new challenges across the league.
Wilson’s career totals include significant passing yardage, numerous touchdowns, and a long streak of starts — achievements that have solidified his place in NFL history as one of the notable quarterbacks of his era. As he pursues opportunities in 2026, his legacy continues to evolve in real time.
Off-Field Activities and Influence
Off the field, Wilson has also distinguished himself through community involvement, partnerships, and entrepreneurial ventures. His visibility beyond football has kept him in the public eye and contributed to his brand as a multifaceted professional athlete. These engagements reflect a broader impact that stretches beyond the gridiron, connecting with fans and communities alike.
Such off-field visibility can also influence how teams view veteran players like Wilson, as leadership and character traits are valued in franchise cultures that emphasize community engagement and positive locker-room environments.
The NFL’s Quarterback Landscape Entering the 2026 Season
As free agency looms, the quarterback market is one of the most watched segments of the offseason. Teams across the league are assessing needs at the position, balancing young talent with experienced professionals. In this environment, players like Wilson — who bring both extensive playing experience and a deep understanding of the modern NFL — can attract interest for roles ranging from starting options to strategic backups.
Whether Wilson finds a team that offers him a clear path back to significant playing time or settles into a role focused on supporting emerging quarterbacks, his destination will be one of the most intriguing storylines of the offseason.
Questions for Fans as the Offseason Unfolds
With Wilson’s free agency status now official, fans are debating where he might end up and what kind of role he will play in the 2026 season. Will he earn a starting job? Will he serve as a veteran backup? Or will he transition into a hybrid role that leverages his leadership and experience? These questions are driving conversation among NFL followers as teams finalize their offseason plans.
Only time will tell where Wilson lands, but his intention to continue playing ensures that his name will remain part of the league’s quarterback conversation throughout the offseason and into next season.
