Russell Wilson announces NFL retirement and new CBS role

Former Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson has announced his retirement from the NFL after a 14-year career that included a Super Bowl title and nine Pro Bowl selections.

Wilson confirmed the decision in a video posted on social media on Wednesday. He also announced he will join CBS Sports as part of “The NFL Today” coverage team.

The quarterback entered the league as a third-round draft pick in 2012 and quickly won the starting role in Seattle after beating out veteran Matt Flynn.

Wilson became one of the NFL’s most recognisable quarterbacks during his decade with the Seahawks, leading the franchise to a Super Bowl victory and establishing himself as one of the league’s highest-paid players.

After leaving Seattle in 2022, Wilson spent two seasons with the Denver Broncos before shorter spells with the Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Giants.

Reports suggested the New York Jets had shown interest in signing Wilson as a backup quarterback, but he instead chose to move into television broadcasting.

Wilson’s long-term legacy in the sport is likely to spark debate among analysts and fans, particularly regarding his Hall of Fame credentials.

Former New England Patriots defensive back Devin McCourty recently described Wilson as being in the “second tier” of quarterbacks during his playing career.