Russell Wilson is one of the prominent quarterbacks in recent NFL history. He has played for teams like the Seattle Seahawks, the Denver Broncos, the Pittsburgh Steelers, and the New York Giants. He played primarily for the Seahawks and won the Super Bowl with them.
Wilson recently confirmed his retirement from the sport on June 3, 2026. After that decision, he had already chosen his next contract, and has gotten some important advice.
Wilson’s retirement came despite his previous wish to continue in the NFL. He last played as a backup quarterback for the Giants in the 2025 season and chose to retire. After his decision, Wilson has already chosen a new career as an analyst for broadcasting giants CBS. He will be a studio analyst on the network’s pre-game show “The NFL Today.”
Feb 5, 2026; San Francisco, CA, USA; Russell Wilson poses on the NFL Honors Red Carpet before Super Bowl LX at Palace of Fine Arts. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
He will be joining existing hosts James Brown, Nate Burleson, and Bill Cowher, along with new addition Kyle Long. Wilson is replacing Matt Ryan as the show revamps for the 2026 NFL season. As he starts his new career, the retired quarterback has received advice from another Giants legend.
Phil Simms is a former NFL quarterback who won two Super Bowls with the Giants and played for 14 seasons in the league. He is himself a successful example of transitioning from a player to an analyst. He previously worked as a broadcaster for CBS as well. [Appearing on the Up & Adams](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ExXn1byJ0pY) show with Kay Adams on June 4, 2026, Simms had an important message for Wilson.
He said, “Don’t be afraid. You just gotta say it, man. And that’s the thing. I always say this thing about the business that we’re in. Your job, my job, is to tell the truth. And it’s really, really important. And why is it so important? Because the fans only know what they read and what they hear. And so, you have to do it for the player, for the organization, their family, everything.”
Before getting the CBS role, Wilson had one option to stay in the NFL.
Russell Wilson declines Jets contract offer
-------------------------------------------
Wilson did not wish to retire at first and was waiting for other franchises to offer. He had received a contract offer from the New York Jets and even visited the team’s Florham Park facility in late April 2026.
He was expected to be the backup quarterback to Geno Smith, who was acquired after the 2025 NFL season. Smith is said to have recommended the franchise to explore signing Wilson.
Discussions had started before the 2026 NFL Draft. Though he could have stayed in the NFL, he described the visit as “great” and also confirmed that he had received an offer. However, Wilson decided against it and signed with CBS instead.
Russell Wilson will now focus on his new career as an analyst.