NFL Hall of Famer Shannon Sharpe, presenter of Nightcap, criticized Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson for an interview he just did with ESSENCE magazine.
Wilson talks about his experience as a black quarterback in the NFL and how he was one of the select few to win a Super Bowl in the interview. In the most recent podcast episode, Sharpe attacked Wilson, expressing his lack of gratitude for the remarks.
“So what role did Doug Williams play? The first African-American quarterback to actually get to and win the Super Bowl and win MVP,” Sharpe said to his co-host Chad Johnson. “So what about Shack Harris? What about Joe Gilliam? So what did Marlin Briscoe did? Jack Harry? Steve McNair? They opened no doors? Donovan McNabb, Michael Vick? It was you?”
In response, Wilson has stated that there was more to his remarks than what Sharpe revealed.
“Let’s start building each other up!!! The Evolution of Black QBs in the NFL has been one of the coolest experiences in my life to be a part of. Full context is always important! Grateful for those before me. Those with me. And those after,” Wilson wrote on X. “God is Good!”
Wilson’s selection as ESSENCE’s “Sexiest Man of the Moment” sparked a conversation on leadership, life, and football.
The Super Bowl winner will face Justin Fields this season to start for the Steelers. Pittsburgh hopes Wilson will be the catalyst for their team’s return to the title game this season.