Broncos icon calls Russell Wilson 'delusional,' blasts Steelers QB's 'toxic positivity'

Russell Wilson may have left the great state of Colorado for the charmed lands of Pittsburgh but that hasn't stopped criticism being launched at him all the way from Denver.

Wilson's tenure with the Denver Broncos was a short and uneventful one. Whether he likes it or not, Wilson did, however, make history with the franchise. When the Broncos handed him a $242.6 million contract in 2022, it was sunshine and rainbows. Cut to 2024 and the Broncos have released Wilson and will eat $85 million in dead cap money - the highest amount in league history.

One would understand, then, if Broncos fans and icons alike were furious with this state of affairs. One such icon is former Broncos guard Mark Schlereth.

Last week, on his Stinkin' Truth podcast, Schlereth raised the issue of Wilson's character, saying:

“I think when you’re delusional, you think you can point the finger at eight million different places that say ‘This is why this happened.’ That toxic positivity, and surrounding yourself with people that basically tell you ‘It’s not your fault man,’ I mean, that’s not even derogatory. That’s just a fact.”

It wasn't all bad though. Schlereth added that he thinks Wilson is still a pretty athletic quarterback. The former Broncos guard also said that the reports of Wilson losing his athleticism are simply incorrect, adding that he believes Wilson wants to end his career like Drew Brees.

MLB: Boston Red Sox at Pittsburgh Pirates

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Where do Russell Wilson's Steelers stand in 2024?

All eyes will be on the AFC North this year, especially with Hard Knocks cameras following all four teams around for the entire season.

With Joe Burrow back (and hopefully healthy), Deshaun Watson in the frame, and Lamar Jackson's Ravens in good stead the AFC North could prove to be a dogfight in 2024.

All things considered, the Steelers may find it hard to compete.

Mike Tomlin may have decided to salvage what's left of Wilson's career but the Steelers also bought low on Justin Fields, who will be breathing down the Super Bowl champion's neck all season long.

The addition of Patrick Queen in free agency was a smart move but when it comes down to it, the Ravens, Bengals and Browns are just that much better than the Steelers. Our algorithm puts the Steelers' playoff chances at 16% in 2024.