There’s cautious optimism swirling around the New York Giants this summer, and for once, it isn’t centered on a first-round rookie or a splashy skill-position signing. It’s centered on—believe it or not—Russell Wilson.
The 35-year-old veteran quarterback, now in his third NFL uniform and surrounded by questions after a rocky exit from both Denver and Pittsburgh, is already winning over his new teammates.
At least, that’s the early buzz from offseason workouts. Wilson gathered with wide receivers Wan’Dale Robinson and Darius Slayton, plus rookie tight end Theo Johnson, for unofficial throwing sessions.
“Better Than We Expected”
That’s the line Robinson used when asked about his first experience catching passes from Wilson, and the tone said it all.
“We were ecstatic,” Robinson told Pro Football Talk. “We couldn’t be more happy that he’s our quarterback.”
That’s a pretty strong endorsement, especially coming from a young receiver who’s seen the quarterback carousel up close and personal. Like the rest of the Giants’ receiving corps, Robinson has had to cycle through Daniel Jones, Drew Lock, and Tommy DeVito. None of whom exactly inspired fear in opposing defenses last year. It’s Wilson’s turn, and according to Robinson, the difference is palpable.
Command, Clarity, and Leadership
What stood out most to Robinson wasn’t just the spiral but the swagger. During their informal session, he praised Wilson’s command, noting how direct and precise the veteran was with setting expectations, adjusting routes, and leading the group.
In Robinson’s words, “We haven’t had a quarterback that’s just gonna command everything, and you know exactly what you want.”
That kind of presence may not show up on a stat sheet, but it matters. In a locker room that’s coming off a year of instability and offensive chaos especially.
A Measured Opportunity, A Short Leash
Make no mistake—Wilson isn’t walking into MetLife with the security of a long-term starter. He’s QB1 for now, and head coach Brian Daboll and GM Joe Schoen have offered public backing, but the leash could be short. The Giants used their first-round pick on Jaxson Dart for a reason. If the rookie shines in camp or preseason, pressure will mount fast.
Still, for all the skepticism around Wilson’s age, fit, and the way things unraveled with the Steelers in Pittsburgh, his 2024 stat line wasn’t disastrous: 16 touchdowns, just 5 picks, and a 95.6 passer rating over 11 starts. The 0-5 skid to close the year stings, but there’s enough there to suggest he’s not done—if the environment is right.
The Giants are banking on that. And for now, Wan’Dale Robinson and the rest of the locker room voicing their belief. It sounds like Russell Wilson is starting to turn the page—and maybe a few heads—in the process.
