Week one of the NFL Preseason typically offers young players and roster hopefuls an opportunity to play over the seasoned veterans on the roster. For the New York Giants, there was an expectation that Russell Wilson would sit out of Saturday’s game against the Buffalo Bills.
On the morning of the matchup, it was revealed that it wouldn’t be the case. The veteran quarterback was slated to start for the Giants, making his official Big Blue debut. The move came as a bit of a shock.
“I definitely wanted to play,” Wilson told reporters after the game with a smile on his face. “Anytime you get to be in the white lines, it’s a good thing. It’s a blessing.”
The veteran quarterback didn’t have to beg his head coach, Brian Daboll, to suit up. And the Giants certainly didn’t frustrate Wilson by suggesting he would get the nod to start in a meaningless week one matchup.
“Dabs and I were both on the same page,” Wilson revealed. “He knew I wanted to play and vice versa. He wanted me to play, and I was ready to go. I love playing.”
As expected, Wilson didn’t see the field for a ton of action. He had an opportunity to go out and throw seven passes. Averaging four yards per completion, Wilson connected with his wideouts on all but one of his attempts, totaling 28 yards. There weren’t any touchdowns, but Wilson’s drive helped the Giants score their first three points of the game with a field goal.
Overall, it was a successful day. Wilson debuted, got his feet wet to begin the year, and made it out of the game turnover and injury-free.
“We’ve worked hard in practice. You never know how it’s going to go; it’s one preseason game,” Daboll said after the matchup. “Russ has done this for a long time. It’s not his first rodeo. Gave him some plays to get into a rhythm. All quarterbacks led the offense down to scoring points.”
Being in the NFL since 2012, Wilson has started all 199 games he played during the regular season. He also has 17 playoff games under his belt, including a Super Bowl victory.
Saturday’s action wasn’t necessarily needed for Wilson, but the veteran quarterback felt it was right after a long offseason. Last year, Wilson spent the season with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He started in 11 games and passed for 2,482 yards, 16 touchdowns, and five interceptions.
In the playoffs, Wilson completed nearly 70 percent of his passes for 270 yards and two touchdowns. After his one-year stint with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Wilson is looking to offer the Giants a major boost after signing a one-year deal with the team.
For more New York Giants and NFL news, head over to Newsweek Sports.
The post Russell Wilson Explains Decision to Make Giants Debut vs. Bills appeared first on Newsweek.
