Russell Wilson endured a strained relationship with Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith during his time in Pittsburgh, it has been claimed.

Former Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger made the revelation on the ‘Footbahlin’ podcast with Pat McAfee as they discussed what the future of the Steelers offense may look like.

The Steelers are pursuing Aaron Rodgers as their new quarterback, with the 41-year-old taking his time to decide over his future in the NFL. It comes after the departure of both Wilson and Justin Fields in the position from last year.

But the recent claims from Roethlisberger about Wilson’s time with the team might well give Rodgers something else to think about.

He said: ‘Arthur Smith has to understand he has got to let the quarterback have some rein.

‘I was told he really pulled the reins back on Russ. In the two-minute drill, wouldn’t let Russ call his own plays. You have to let a quarterback do that stuff.’

Russell Wilson endured some drama with Steelers coach Arthur Smith, it has been claimed

Wilson, pictured with wife Ciara, has now moved on and joined the New York Giants 

McAfee was shocked by the claims, saying to Roethlisberger: ‘I don’t think I’ve ever heard of that in the NFL. With a Super Bowl champion. It’s unique.’

Wilson has since signed a one-year deal with the New York Giants while his former teammate Fields has also headed to the Big Apple and replaced Aaron Rodgers at the New York Jets.

Roethlisberger said that the Steelers need to make a genuine sH๏τ at the Super Bowl in 2025. 

‘It’s got to be win now because what you have on defense isn’t going to last either,’ he said. ‘I think D-line has got to be important in the draft. 

‘You’ve got Cam Heyward who played lights out last year but how many more years is he going to play lights out? TJ (Watt) is still TJ and you have (Alex) Highsmith on the other side.’

TJ Watt appeared to drop an exit hint earlier this week, sharing a picture of himself in Steelers uniform giving a ‘peace out’ sign.