Seasoned signal-caller Russell Wilson posted an emotional video across his social media platforms on Wednesday.
Wilson is scheduled to become a member of the CBS broadcast team as an NFL commentator and is currently stepping away from professional football.
The uploaded video carried the title “Thank You, Football,” and its accompanying description concluded with “Love, #3.”
Within the footage, Wilson revisits past moments, beginning with his early life and initial involvement in football, continuing through his time in high school and university.
The ex-quarterback expressed gratitude to previous Seattle head coach Pete Carroll for believing in him and drafting Wilson in the third round of the 2012 NFL selection process. He stated, “I appreciate you taking a chance on a young, 5-11, Black individual from Richmond, Virginia, who was informed he was too undersized to ever succeed in the NFL.”
He discussed in the recording how his enthusiasm for football evolved into a fixation, subsequently detailing numerous instances of the positive impacts the sport provided him beyond the playing field.
Wilson proceeded to acknowledge the city of Seattle for its influence on his life, remarking, “You nurtured me.” The quarterback secured the 2014 Super Bowl victory with the Seahawks, which stands as his sole championship title, should this mark the conclusion of his playing days.
The former signal-caller subsequently shared a message for his offspring. “Awaken each morning convinced that you are capable of extraordinary accomplishments, as inherent greatness resides within you.”
Wilson concludes the footage by stating, “I express my gratitude to you, football. I thank you, I thank you, I thank you. My appreciation is everlasting. Love, 3.”
The ex-quarterback bids farewell to active football participation for the foreseeable future. His focus will shift toward getting ready to participate in CBS’ ensemble for “The NFL Today,” the network’s Sunday pregame broadcast.
This will not mark his initial appearance on television with the broadcaster. Last year, during the New York Giants’ Week 14 bye, Wilson served as a temporary guest commentator. One can reasonably infer that this trial period was successful, and he will continue to be involved in NFL Sundays, though in an altered capacity.
