Russell Wilson Announces Retirement and CBS Sports Transition

Russell Wilson, the celebrated NFL quarterback, has announced his retirement after 14 seasons. His career is marked by a Super Bowl win with the Seattle Seahawks, multiple Pro Bowl appearances, and the honor of the 2020 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year.

Wilson shared his retirement decision via a video on social media. Starting his career as a third-round pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, he became a prominent figure in the league. He amassed 46,966 passing yards and 353 touchdowns, playing for teams like the Denver Broncos, Pittsburgh Steelers, and New York Giants.

A key part of his announcement also involved Wilson’s new role at CBS Sports as an NFL analyst. The video reflected on his football journey, highlighting moments from early childhood, his college experience at NC State and Wisconsin, to his time at the NFL Scouting Combine.

“I remember the moment I fell in love with football. Waking up before sunrise with my dad and brother. Deep post routes and ‘moon balls.’ Yeah, that’s where it all began.”

Wilson experienced quick success in the NFL, achieving an 11-5 record in his first season. His leadership helped the Seahawks achieve an NFC dominance, resulting in a Super Bowl XLVIII victory against the Denver Broncos, with a commanding 43-8 score. Seattle’s renowned “Legion of Boom” defense contributed to this triumph.

Despite another Super Bowl appearance, Wilson could not secure a second win. The Seahawks’ decision to pass at the goal line allowed the Patriots’ Malcolm Butler to intercept, resulting in a heartbreaking loss.

Wilson’s career stats with Seattle include 37,059 passing yards, 292 touchdowns, and an overall record of 104-53-1. He expressed gratitude in his video, acknowledging both Coach Pete Carroll and Seahawks fans.

“To Coach Carroll, thanks for taking a chance on the young, 5’11” black kid from Richmond, Virginia who was told he was too small to ever make it in the NFL. We knew what winning was like,” Wilson reflected.

Wilson’s performance faced challenges after being traded to the Broncos in 2022. Complexities arose with coach Sean Payton, resulting in a 4-11 finish his first year and a subsequent 7-8 run.

Wilson then took a veteran minimum deal with the Steelers in 2024, achieving a 6-5 record and earning his last Pro Bowl appearance. He ended the season without progressing beyond the Wild Card Round.

In 2025, the Giants signed Wilson, drafting Jaxson Dart as a successor. Wilson’s role was replaced by Dart in Week 4, yet Wilson supported the transition. He expressed pride in mentoring Dart and working with every coach, teammate, and fan throughout his journey.

“To every teammate I’ve had the privilege of sharing the locker room with, thank you for the sacrifices, the brotherhood, the memories. None of this is possible without you.”

“To every fan who supported, through the highs and the lows, your belief, your energy, and your passion meant more than you’ll ever know.”