The Bengals have Joe Burrow, the Ravens have Lamar Jackson and the Browns, Deshaun Watson, but one NFL Insider believe its Russell Wilson and the Steelers that is the team to beat in the AFC North going into this season.
Audacy Sports NFL Insider Brian Baldinger told Chris Mack and the BetQL Daily crew earlier this week that he believes Pittsburgh is in the driver’s seat.
Talking about the Steelers having both Wilson and Justin Fields, Baldinger said he doesn’t see the two in competition.
He also believes Wilson has a much better team around him, compared to Denver last year.
“Russell Wilson threw 26 touchdown passes last year in 15 starts with very mediocre talent around him,” said Baldy. “The Pittsburgh Steelers, with three quarterbacks last year and making the playoffs threw a grand total of 13 touchdown passes.”
Going into his 13th season in the NFL, Baldinger believes that General Manager Omar Khan and assistant Andy Weidl have build the best offensive line Wilson has ever played behind.
“I think by midseason, they’re going to be humming, they’re going to be very good,” added Baldy.
Baldinger says giving Wilson a talent offensive line along with Jaylen Warren and Najee Harris at running back, Pat Freiermuth at tight end and George Pickens (and hopefully another receiver) will take the veteran QB’s game to a new level.
“I think Pittsburgh’s going to be in a good situation,” said Baldinger. “I think they’re going to be the team to beat in the AFC North and I think Russell Wilson is going to be a big part of that.”
While he likes Justin Fields and his continued development, Baldinger says it will be Wilson’s job as long as he wants it.