Russell Wilson Retires from the NFL
Russell Wilson has announced his retirement from the NFL after 14 seasons, a career that notably included a Super Bowl victory with the Seattle Seahawks.
The 10-time Pro Bowler and 2020 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year shared his retirement news through a video on social media.
Drafted in the third round by the Seahawks in 2012, Wilson emerged as one of the league’s top quarterbacks, amassing 46,966 passing yards and 353 total touchdowns during his career, which also featured time with the Denver Broncos, Pittsburgh Steelers, and New York Giants.
His announcement comes on the heels of reports that he signed a deal to work as an NFL analyst for CBS Sports. There was initial uncertainty about whether he intended to end his playing career or just wanted a break. In his video, he reflects on memorable moments from his career, confirming his transition to CBS Sports.
“I remember the moment I fell in love with football: waking up before sunrise with my dad and brother. Deep post routes and ‘moon balls.’ That’s where it all started. Over time, my love for the game transformed from a passion into an obsession,” Wilson said, showing clips from his journey from childhood to college and the NFL.
Wilson quickly found success in the NFL after beginning his college career at North Carolina State University but really made a name for himself at the University of Wisconsin. In his first NFL season with the Seahawks, he led the team to an 11-5 record, turning them into a formidable force in the NFC.
In Super Bowl XLVIII, Wilson and the Seahawks faced the Denver Broncos and won decisively, taking home the Vince Lombardi Trophy in just his second season. He expressed gratitude toward Coach Pete Carroll in his video, saying, “Thank you for taking a chance on a 5’11” young black player from Richmond, Virginia who was told he was too small for the NFL.” Wilson emphasized that they understood what winning felt like.
Despite his early triumph, Wilson didn’t secure another championship and faced disappointment in Super Bowl XLIX, where a pivotal play decision led to a loss against the New England Patriots.
In his ten seasons with Seattle, he achieved a record of 104-53-1, throwing for 37,059 yards and 292 touchdowns. In his farewell message, Wilson acknowledged Seattle fans, saying, “You raised me.”
His journey took a challenging turn when he was traded to the Broncos before the 2022 season. Struggles ensued, including a difficult relationship with head coach Sean Payton. In his first year in Denver, he finished with a 4-11 record, and in 2023, he went 7-8 before the team moved on, even with a hefty contract still in play.
After this, Wilson signed a minimal contract with the Steelers for the 2024 season, where he managed a 6-5 record and achieved his tenth and final Pro Bowl selection. Although the Steelers reached the playoffs, they didn’t advance past the wild card round.
He joined the Giants before the 2025 season, but with the team drafting Jackson Dart from Ole Miss, his playing time quickly diminished. Dart took over in Week 4 against the Chargers, leaving Wilson with just three starts. However, he remained supportive and optimistic, sharing praise for coaching his young counterpart.
Reflecting on his career, Wilson expressed gratitude to the coaches, teammates, and fans from each franchise he was a part of.
“To all the teammates I’ve had the privilege of sharing a locker room with, thank you for the sacrifices, brotherhood, and memories. None of this would have been possible without you,” he mentioned.
He also recognized the fans: “Your belief, energy, and passion meant more than you could ever imagine.”
