"They're saying I'm too short": When Coach Jon Gruden made Wisconsin star Russell Wilson accept his biggest critique
Quarterback Russell Wilson is proving in his 13th year in the league he can still lead a franchise. He has won his last four games as the starting quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers after recovering from a calf injury. His comeback reminded fans of the time he spoke with former NFL coach Jon Gruden about his height and how he overcame his doubters.
In an old clip from ESPN's "Gruden's QB Camp," Gruden spoke with Wilson about his flaws before he was drafted.
"I got to break this to you. These quarterbacks are getting taller and taller and taller. They're saying, the critics, you're only 5'11". What do you say to all of this, these critics out there that are saying you have to be taller to play in the NFL."
Wilson responded that despite his height, he could still throw the football and make plays for his team. Gruden showed footage of a game where Wilson's pass was tipped by a defender and asked what his critics said about why he couldn't complete the pass. Wilson replied that it was because he wasn't protected, and Gruden asked him again, which the former Wisconsin quarterback said his critics brought up his height.
"They're saying I'm too short," Wilson said.
Gruden mentioned how former NFL quarterback Drew Brees, who was 6-0, succeeded in the league because he was mentally tough. The former coach wanted to prove Wilson could succeed in the league with the right mentality. Wilson appeared to take that advice and has had a great career so far.
Wilson's 2024 season with Steelers
Wilson signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers on March 15, ending a two-year run with the Denver Broncos. He was slated to start for the team but suffered a calf injury before the season that would sideline him for several weeks.
He took over the starting role from quarterback Justin Fields on Oct. 20 in Week 7 against the New York Jets (3-8). Fans were skeptical of the Steelers' decision, as Fields led the team to a 4-2 record. However, Wilson showed he can be what the team needs to compete for a Super Bowl. The Steelers defeated the Jets 37-15, with Wilson going 16-29 for 264 yards and two touchdowns.
So far, Pittsburgh has yet to lose with the 13-year veteran. Wilson has completed 73 passes for 942 yards and has six touchdowns.
In Week 11, he helped Pittsburgh see out a close 18-16 victory over the Baltimore Ravens. Wilson ended the game 23-36 for 205 yards and had one interception. Although it was far from a perfect performance, the veteran did enough to get his team to victory over its AFC rival.
Wilson will start again Thursday in Week 12 when the Steelers take on the Cleveland Browns.