Russell Wilson in a navy Seahawks jersey, kneeling on the field with head bowed, surrounded by a soft glow as a 'Thank You, Football' message fades in.
Russell Wilson in a navy Seahawks jersey, kneeling on the field with head bowed, surrounded by a soft glow as a 'Thank You, Football' message fades in.

A 14-season journey with three Super Bowl runs closes quietly, meaningful context for a fan who followed his legacy.

Russell Wilson says goodbye to football Story flow and key facts

Russell Wilson has stepped away from the NFL after 14 seasons, marking the transition with a heartfelt 'thank you, football' video. Though he did not explicitly announce retirement, the message was widely interpreted as the end of his playing career. Wilson, a 10-time Pro Bowl quarterback and Super Bowl XLVIII champion with the Seattle Seahawks, will now join CBS Sports as part of the NFL Today pregame show.

Wilson’s career began in 2012 as a third-round pick for Seattle, where he quickly became a franchise icon. He led the Seahawks to two Super Bowl appearances, winning the first in dominant fashion over the Denver Broncos. His prime years featured elite pocket mobility, consistent touchdown production, and remarkable durability—starting the first 149 games of his career.

After leaving Seattle in 2022, Wilson played for the Denver Broncos, Pittsburgh Steelers, and New York Giants. His final season came in 2025 with the Giants, where he started 0-3 before stepping aside for rookie Jaxson Dart. Despite not officially retiring, Wilson’s move to broadcasting suggests his playing days are likely over—though he left a slight opening for a potential return if a team needs him.

Wilson finishes his career with 46,966 passing yards, 353 touchdowns, and 114 interceptions. His legacy includes not only on-field success but also his role as the 2020 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year, recognizing excellence on and off the field. As he begins his next chapter in media, fans reflect on a career defined by resilience, leadership, and quiet evolution.

Facts

  • Russell Wilson posted a 'thank you, football' video on June 3, 2026, signaling a transition from playing to broadcasting.
  • He did not explicitly announce retirement but will join CBS Sports' NFL Today pregame show.
  • Wilson played 14 NFL seasons, earning 10 Pro Bowl selections and winning Super Bowl XLVIII with the Seattle Seahawks.
  • He recorded 46,966 passing yards, 353 touchdowns, and 114 interceptions over his career.
  • Wilson last played for the New York Giants in 2025, going 0-3 before yielding to rookie Jaxson Dart.
  • The Seahawks traded Wilson to the Broncos in 2022 after 10 seasons with the team.

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