Russell Wilson might only be a short-term solution at quarterback for the New York Giants, but for many young Black quarterbacks in the NFL, he remains a key role model.
The Giants brought in the 36-year-old veteran this offseason to lead the team in 2025, though his future beyond that is uncertain. That’s because the team also moved up in the draft to select Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart, who they view as their long-term answer at the position.
Still, as Wilson prepares to enter his 14th NFL season — and suit up for his fourth different team — he’s focused on more than just wins and stats. He takes pride in setting an example for younger Black quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson, Kyler Murray, Justin Fields, Jayden Daniels, and rookie Shedeur Sanders.
“Whatever I can do to inspire guys, to give guys belief,” Wilson said during a recent appearance on Carmelo Anthony’s podcast. “Whatever questions they have — about life, business, football — I want to be there for them, the way others were there for me. I feel like I have to give back, and give back 100 times over.”
Despite being considered undersized at 5-foot-11 and drafted in the third round by the Seahawks, Wilson has built a Hall-of-Fame-caliber career, with 10 Pro Bowl selections and a Super Bowl ring to his name.
When asked by Anthony for advice to young quarterbacks, Wilson kept it simple: “There’s no magic pill. You have to do the work.”
Wilson, who was also drafted by the Texas Rangers for his baseball talent, shared a past conversation with Kyler Murray, another dual-sport athlete. He explained why he chose to focus on football.
“I told him my perspective — why football should come first,” Wilson said. “Because you can always go back to baseball. But when you’re young, you’re short, and you’re Black, you’ve got to give football a real shot now.”
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