The Broncos are paying new Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson $37.79M not to play for them this season.
That, of course, has given Denver's players a little extra motivation for when they host Pittsburgh in Week 2. Even linebacker Jonas Griffith, who missed the entire 2023 season after tearing his ACL, wants to enact some revenge.
"I'm really excited, obviously, for any game I get to play in," Griffith said on Denver Sports 104.3 The Fan. "But you see that one you're excited to go out there and beat the Steelers, first of all, it's a good organization. I want to pick off Russ, for sure. I think that would be really cool, just to pick him off and get the victory, first and foremost."
For Griffith to have an opportunity to pick off Wilson, the veteran quarterback must first beat out Justin Fields for the starting job. However, all signs seem to be pointing to that happening, as the Steelers coaching staff have all reiterated that Wilson has the "pole position."
Another thing Griffith must do is stay healthy. The 27-year-old has played in just 22 games since entering the league as an undrafted rookie in 2020.
Part of that was him bouncing around the league looking to establish himself on a team, but he believes he is finally healthy.
"I mean, I definitely have room to grow from conditioning and everything, but I'm 100%," Griffith added. "I participated fully in OTAs and minicamp, and honestly, my knee feels better than it did before. ... It's great, man. And I have no pain. And I'm itching [to play a game]."
Griffith must also battle with linebackers Cody Barton, Baron Browning and Nik Bonitto for playing time next to Alex Singleton, but that is just a small hurdle in what he thinks will be by far his best season yet.
"Honestly, my goal is to be All-Pro this year," Griffith concluded. "Just measuring myself versus other top linebackers in the league, I think I can be that. Just go out there and do what I do, just take my game to the next level and don't leave any meat on that bone."
Griffith only has one interception in his career, which came against quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo and the 49ers in Week 3 of 2022. Getting his second versus Wilson will set him up to have the 2024 season he wants.
