NFL DC Shades Russell Wilson, 'What He Had That Was Magical About Him… Is Gone'

As he enters his first year with the New York Giants, veteran quarterback Russell Wilson reportedly isn't viewed with the same reverence that he was when he was in his prime.

An NFL defensive coordinator told The Athletic's Mike Sando that Wilson's declining mobility hurts his chances of being viewed as a top-tier quarterback.

"What he had that was magical about him — the ability to create plays on the move — is gone," the defensive coordinator said.

Wilson was once known for his ability to thrive on improvisation after a play breaks down. At 36 years old, he's no longer able to escape pressure the way he once was.

Joining the Giants marks Wilson's third team in the last three years following his stints with the Denver Broncos and Pittsburgh Steelers. In addition to concerns about his running skills, another defensive coordinator pointed out his diminished throwing strength as well.

"He can still do some things, but I think he is just declining. Some of the throws he was good at are not there for him anymore," the defensive coordinator told Sando. "I did not feel like he was ripping throws. Even his deep throws were like airball stuff, hoping George Pickens makes a play."

Wilson will have the chance to silence his critics during the 2025 season with the Giants, but 2025 No. 25 pick Jaxson Dart is looming. If Wilson struggles at all, many will be calling for Dart to get some experience as a rookie on his way to becoming the future face of the franchise.