From the “Legion of Boom” glory days to the infamous goal-line interception in Super Bowl 2015, Russell Wilson’s career has always sparked debate. Since leaving the Seahawks in 2021, he’s gone 17-27 as a starter, bouncing from Denver (2022–2023) to Pittsburgh in 2024, and now New York in 2025, with eight straight losses piling on scrutiny. That debate has only grown sharper, with even Hall of Famers and former teammates questioning the strength of his Hall of Fame legacy.

On X, Giants reporter Doug Rush shared Hall of Famer Tony Gonzalez’s candid assessment of Wilson’s post-Seattle career. “I hope we’ve seen the last of him. If ever there was somebody who played himself out of a Hall of Fame, it’s Russell Wilson. I just don’t think he’s done himself any favors since he left Seattle.”

Gonzalez reflected on Wilson’s peak years in Seattle, where he won a Super Bowl and reached another, establishing himself as one of the league’s elite quarterbacks. During that period, Wilson posted multiple seasons with over 4,000 passing yards, threw 292 career touchdowns in Seattle, and maintained a passer rating over 100 in his prime.

“Honestly, I hope we have. … If ever there was somebody who played himself out of a Hall of Fame, it’s Russell Wilson,” Gonzalez added. “And I say that because look at what’s happened. Ever since he left Seattle, when he was in Seattle, he was the man. He was making these good plays. He won a Super Bowl, went to two of them,” he continued.

However, Wilson’s move out of Seattle has not been easy. Gonzalez pointed to his struggles in adapting to new systems and coaching styles: “But as soon as he left there, he went to Denver,  signed that big old deal: they paid him $39 million to leave. He goes to Pittsburgh, plays there one year, and he’s out of there,” he remarked.  “Now he goes (to New York) and has three games. I just don’t know if it’s gonna get any better, and I don’t want to see him on a sideline holding a clipboard,” he further added.

Analysts note that Wilson’s completion percentage has dropped from over 64% in Seattle to around 60% in subsequent seasons, while his interception rate has increased. His QBR has also dipped, highlighting issues with decision-making and offensive efficiency.

Richard Sherman, Wilson’s former teammate, also added perspective on how his early success was shaped by the Seahawks’ environment. “I agree. I think you’ve got to judge his career off when the defense was there – he had a legendary defense, an all-time defense and how much success he had – and then without that legendary defense,” he said.

Besides this, Sherman also recalled a defining moment that continues to impact Wilson’s legacy.  “It’s tough. You feel like you’ve got the game won,” he continued, recounting their struggles, “We sacrificed – guys were beat up, guys were injured coming into that game. You just have to turn around and hand it off to Marshawn Lynch. We didn’t. The quarterback threw an interception. Game.”

While debates rage over his Hall of Fame legacy, Wilson faces a very immediate challenge: adapting to a new role as the Giants’ backup quarterback.

Russell Wilson accepts backup role, focused on team

One day after being benched for rookie Jaxson Dart, Wilson made it clear he’s committed to helping the Giants and not seeking a trade or release. “No, I’m focused on helping this team win. I want to be here. I love this organization,” he said. He also expressed his excitement for the team’s process. “I love the process of it all and the guys in the locker room. I’m not giving up on us and this season.”

Even the head coach Brian Daboll praised his response.  “Russ was nothing but a pro,” he stated. Not only that but Wilson also acknowledged the challenge of stepping back after a career as a starter, framing it as part of his journey.

“I’m not done. I have so much belief in myself and know what I’m capable of,” he said. Further, he exhibited his positive mindset. “Life is sometimes a 16-round fight, and sometimes you feel like, in the moment, you are at the end of something heavy. I just believe I’m still in Round 5, Round 6.”

Amidst his backup role, his focus remains on mentoring Dart and keeping the team united. “I think the best thing I can do is lead from the front” he said. He did not stop here; he also showcased his determination for the team’s win.  “For me, right now, it’s really about the team and about helping Jaxson. I just told him, ‘I’ve got your back.”

Even after a 450-yard, three-touchdown game against Dallas, Wilson’s struggles in the red zone,  4-of-18 passing, highlight the Giants’ need for change. “A few plays here and there, the season is a little bit different. I’m not discouraged about our team, and I’m not discouraged about myself,” he said.

Despite the setback, he continues to guide the team and mentor Jaxson Dart, proving that his leadership extends beyond on-field stats.