For a while now, it’s been clear that Russell Wilson is winding down his NFL career. However, the sunsets in South Florida are undeniably stunning.

On a day when the Pittsburgh Steelers managed to improve to 3-0 with Justin Fields at quarterback, it was noticeable that Wilson was again sidelined as the emergency QB. Meanwhile, the Miami Dolphins were struggling, facing defeat for the second week in a row, this time against Wilson’s former team, the Seattle Seahawks.

The connections are starting to become apparent.

Wilson’s calf injury has allowed the Steelers to comfortably start Fields without consequences. As the young quarterback becomes more comfortable in an offense that suits him, and with his performance improving (including both a rushing and a passing touchdown in Sunday’s win), it’s likely the Steelers will have to officially name him their starting quarterback soon. This was expected, especially considering both Fields and Wilson, who is 35, will be free agents in 2025, but only one is seen as a viable long-term option.

Interestingly, it seems even head coach Mike Tomlin is starting to take a liking to Fields.

“He’s doing a good job doing what we’re asking him to do, playing and playing to win,” Tomlin remarked after the Steelers’ 20-10 victory over the previously undefeated Los Angeles Chargers, adding that his efforts are appreciated.

At the same time, Wilson’s value may also be on the rise.

We’re only three weeks into the 2024 NFL season, but several teams appear to be facing quarterback challenges – the Las Vegas Raiders and Tennessee Titans are prime examples, though such issues could arise at any team, at any moment.

This brings us to the Dolphins.

After making the playoffs during coach Mike McDaniel’s first two seasons, the Dolphins have invested heavily in their roster, leading to some precarious financial decisions as they strive to compete right now. A significant move was the four-year, $212.4 million extension given to quarterback Tua Tagovailoa in July, which included $167.2 million guaranteed. Unfortunately, Tagovailoa is currently on injured reserve following his latest concussion and won’t be able to play until at least October 27, provided his health and support system are in favor of his return.

The Dolphins were soundly defeated 24-3 by Seattle on Sunday, losing their last two games with a combined score of 55-13, and they lost backup QB Skylar Thompson to injury—who, it should be noted, wasn’t performing particularly well before his exit. The game was finished up by Tim Boyle, who was just called up from the practice squad.

When questioned about his 1-2 team’s future steps, McDaniel stated: “I think you have to look at everything. And you have to find a way to give your team the best chance to win.”

“We have to find a way to improve as a unit.”

The situation surrounding the Dolphins in 2024 closely resembles the troubles faced by the 2023 New York Jets. The Jets had hoped to manage until Aaron Rodgers returned from his Achilles injury, but their talented playmakers were left struggling on a compromised offense, while the defense carried an undue burden.

Similarly, the Dolphins are starting to experience these problems. Star players like WR Tyreek Hill, WR Jaylen Waddle, and RB De’Von Achane are increasingly becoming spectators.

“(W)e have a really strong team, and we have great leaders keeping everyone together,” Hill said Sunday.

“We will hold a captain’s meeting to discuss what needs to be adjusted and return to the drawing board on Monday night.”

If only there was a veteran quarterback available, someone with significant playoff experience, playing for a low salary on an expiring deal—ideally with a career completion percentage around 65%, known for keeping the ball safe, and perhaps more inclined to stick closely to a coach’s strategy after teaming up with Sean Payton under tough circumstances.

Oh, wait.

Is Wilson no longer the player he once was, particularly in terms of mobility? Yes. Is it accurate to say he is less accurate and decisive compared to Tagovailoa? Absolutely. However, despite some dissatisfaction from Payton in Denver, Wilson demonstrated during the 2023 season that he could still be a competent NFL starter, achieving 26 touchdown passes with a 98.0 QB rating, and understanding how to utilize his playmakers effectively. He is clearly eager to add another Super Bowl win to his slightly tarnished reputation.

Wilson claims that he is nearly ready to return to action. This raises the question: Should the Steelers simply keep him as insurance behind Fields?

As of Sunday night, Pittsburgh was one of four undefeated teams, leading their AFC North rivals significantly. The franchise knows the importance of having a reliable backup like Charlie Batch, who could effectively lead the team if the starting quarterback was out.

While Wilson might be more resourceful than Batch, Fields isn’t yet at the level of iconic QBs like Terry Bradshaw or Ben Roethlisberger. Furthermore, despite their undefeated record, this doesn’t seem like a team on the verge of winning the franchise’s seventh Super Bowl.

Letting Wilson go for a mid-round draft pick could potentially strengthen the team’s depth chart for the future.

When it comes to closing a deal for a new quarterback, the final trade piece may be crucial if Fields isn’t the choice – especially since the Steelers are unlikely to draft in the top five. Making a trade could also prevent potential distractions for Tomlin as the season progresses.

The Steelers are standing out amidst what has become a common pattern of early season mediocrity in the NFL, showing promising signs of improvement. Meanwhile, the Dolphins may have more potential for the 2024 season, but they might need to consider a temporary fix like Wilson. If Tagovailoa faces a lengthy suspension, Miami may find themselves needing Wilson as a stopgap until they can search for a younger quarterback, whether through the draft or free agency.

Perhaps a change in scenery would allow Russ to say, “Let’s ride!” into a more favorable situation than his current benchwarmer status as he nears the end of his remarkable career.

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Catch up with YSL News Sports’ Nate Davis on X, previously known as Twitter, @ByNateDavis.