Robert Griffin III didn’t hesitate to make a case on the legacy of Russell Wilson in the NFL after the quarterback announced his retirement from football on Wednesday. Wilson called off his time in the league after 14 seasons, but he leaves with a reputation of defying the odds.
As Wilson steps away from professional football, Griffin believes he sits among the greatest quarterbacks to have played the game. Quoting the emotional announcement video, the 2012 Heisman Trophy winner believes the 10-time Pro Bowler deserves a place in Canton.
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“Russell Wilson just announced his retirement and he is a HALL OF FAMER FOR SURE,” Griffin wrote on X.
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A Hall of Fame debate was expected to immediately gain traction after Wilson announced his retirement. Supporters point to his sustained excellence, leadership and efficiency metrics in the NFL. Critics, however, counter with his lack of All-Pro first team honors and MVP votes.
Without a doubt, Russell Wilson had a noteworthy career in the NFL. He recorded an amazing 46,966 passing yards and 353 touchdowns. He also rushed for 5,568 yards and 31 touchdowns, solidifying his legacy as one of the best dual-threat quarterbacks in the league’s history.
His successful 10-year tenure with the Seattle Seahawks, where he led the team to its first Super Bowl, makes a good case for his Hall of Fame shout. However, his stint with the Denver Broncos, Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Giants in his final four years raises some questions.
Stephen A. Smith makes a Hall of Fame case for Russell Wilson
On Thursday, Stephen A. Smith shared his opinion on the Hall of Fame debate that was ignited after Russell Wilson announced his retirement. When asked the question on “First Take,” the ESPN analyst made a case for Wilson’s place in Canton, citing his first nine years in the NFL.
“In his first nine years in the NFL: regular season wins, second all-time to Tom Brady,” Smith said. “Postseason wins, second all-time to Tom Brady. Super Bowl wins two (appearances), 1-1 record. Pro Bowl, eight of his first nine seasons.
“Touchdown passes, fourth all-time behind Brees, Brady, and Rodgers. Total yards, sixth all-time. Quarterback rushing yards, second only to Cam Newton. Passer rating, third behind Aaron Rodgers and Drew Brees. Game-winning drives, second only to Matthew Stafford. That’s what he did.”
As the debate continues to get intense in the NFL world, it’s becoming clear that Russell Wilson has a good shot at getting inducted to the Pro Football Hall of Fame one day. However, it appears it won’t happen as a first-ballot inductee or in the early years after he becomes eligible.
Edited by Farouk Yusuf