Giants QB Russell Wilson confident he can still contribute despite signs of decline: “I’m not done”
Despite being benched for the first time in his 14-year career, New York Giants quarterback Russell Wilson isn’t giving up just yet.
The New York Giants are winless after three games so far this season, and quarterback Russell Wilson has officially been benched as they head into their Week 4 matchup against the undefeated Los Angeles Chargers. The Giants have opted instead to start rookie Jaxson Dart, siting Wilson’s inconsistent play. Still, Wilson is not giving up on his NFL career just yet.
From $245M man to backup: Russell Wilson refuses to quit
Just three years after being one of the NFL’s highest-paid stars, 36-year-old Wilson is now a backup, marking the first time in his 14-year career he’s lost a starting job.
Wilson’s play has declined sharply, with only two good outings in his last nine starts dating back to last season. But he insists he’s “not done” and still believes he can contribute.
“I’ve got so much belief in myself and know what I’m capable of. I believe I was able to show it, especially on the road in Dallas [two weeks ago],” said Wilson. “I know that I can help this football team if that comes up.”
In the game he’s referencing against Dallas, Wilson had a 450-yard, three-touchdown performance. He looked a lot like his old self in that game, but he was also up against one of the worst defenses in the league. And now that the Giants have chosen Dart as their new starter, Wilson may not get another chance this season, unless Dart suffers an injury.
Despite speculation that Wilson could seek a trade, he says he intends to honor his one-year deal, stay in New York, and support Dart while staying ready if needed. His resume over the last year, including struggles in Pittsburgh and with the Giants, makes it unlikely another team would view him as a starter. Still, Wilson remains confident.
“I know I’m a winner,” he said. “I know my mentality of what that looks like. I know having the championship mentality. Winners don’t pick and choose. Leaders don’t pick and choose when they want to lead and when they want to help and communicate like a winner. Those are the things that I know, and I can control. I know I’m going to do it again. So that’s what I’m excited about.”
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