Full Breakdown
Russell Wilson's Attempt to Recruit Josh Gordon to the Steelers
11/21/2025, 8:30:40 PM
Background on the Steelers' Receiver Needs
The Pittsburgh Steelers have been actively seeking to bolster their wide receiver corps since trading Diontae Johnson in March 2024. Despite attempts to fill this gap, including the acquisition of Mike Williams, the team has struggled to find a reliable No. 2 receiver. Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson have shown promise, but the Steelers continue to face challenges in their passing game.
Russell Wilson's Recruitment Efforts
Former All-Pro wide receiver Josh Gordon disclosed that Russell Wilson, who previously played for the Steelers, attempted to recruit him to Pittsburgh last year. During an appearance on the Glory Daze podcast, Gordon recounted, “Russell, he even called me wanting to go. He’s like, ‘Hey man, let me see if I can get you in with the Pittsburgh Steelers’ when I was already done and out of Tennessee.” This recruitment effort came after Gordon's tumultuous career, which has been marred by personal issues and multiple suspensions.
Josh Gordon's NFL Journey
Josh Gordon was selected in the second round of the 2012 Supplemental Draft by the Cleveland Browns, where he quickly established himself as a top receiver. In 2013, he recorded 87 catches for 1,646 yards and nine touchdowns, earning first-team All-Pro honors. However, his career has been plagued by substance abuse issues, leading to six suspensions and significant time away from the game. His last NFL appearance was in 2022 with the Tennessee Titans, where he played in two games without making a statistical impact.
Implications of Wilson's Recruitment
Despite Wilson's interest in bringing Gordon to the Steelers, experts suggest that it may have been beneficial for the team that this recruitment did not materialize. Even if Gordon had managed to stay out of trouble, it is unlikely he would have significantly contributed to the Steelers' offense. The potential risks associated with Gordon's history likely outweighed the possible rewards of his recruitment.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of the Steelers' ongoing struggles at the wide receiver position argue that the team's failure to secure a reliable second option has hindered their offensive performance. The inability to capitalize on recruitment opportunities, such as Wilson's attempt to bring in Gordon, raises questions about the team's strategic decisions.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I ended up staying in Seattle for two years and getting to meet Russell,” — Josh Gordon, Former NFL Wide Receiver
- “And Russell, he even called me wanting to go, he’s like, ‘Hey man, let me see if I can get you in with the Pittsburgh Steelers’ when I was already done and out of Tennessee.” — Josh Gordon, recounting Russell Wilson's recruitment efforts
In conclusion, while Russell Wilson's attempt to recruit Josh Gordon to the Steelers highlights the ongoing challenges the team faces in enhancing their receiving options, it also underscores the complexities of Gordon's career and the implications of his past on potential future contributions.
