The Pittsburgh Steelers playoff journey came to an abrupt following their 28-14 loss to the Baltimore Ravens in the wild-card round.
Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson completed 69% of his passes for 270 yards and two touchdowns in what turned out the be Pittsburgh’s fifth-consecutive loss. Wilson, who signed a one-year contract with the Steelers, is set to become a free agent this season.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin was non-committal on the former Super Bowl champ returning to Pittsburgh. “We don’t have a quarterback under contract and so we’ve got some major discussions there,” Tomlin told reporters.
“The major work, obviously, starts first and foremost just understanding what our options are, what the field looks like in terms of free agency, what the draft pool looks like and then beginning the process in terms of decision-making based on known variables.”
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson at M&T Bank Stadium on Jan. 11, 2025.
While it’s unclear what the future holds for Wilson, the 36-year-old quarterback and his wife, Ciara, had a lot to celebrate during the divisional round, as it was Natalia Bryant’s birthday. Natalia is the eldest daughter of the late NBA legend, Kobe Bryant and his wife, Vanessa Bryant.
The “1,2 Step” singer is best friends with Vanessa, and she sent a sweet message to Natalia her 22nd birthday.
Russell Wilson and Ciara celebrate Natalia Bryant’s birthday on Jan. 19, 2025.
Ciara posted, “Nani Boo @nataliabryant !! Happy Birthday Young Queen!! We are so proud of you! We love you so much!! đđđđ˝.”
Wilson reposted the message on his Instagram Stories and added, “Happy Bday @natalabryant.”
Natalia is a model and film student at USC. She has three sisters, Bianka, Capri, and Gianna, the latter of whom died in the helicopter crash that took her father’s life in 2020.
Ciara, who shares four children with Wilson, formed a close relationship with Vanessa and her daughters.
Ciara poses with Vanessa Bryant and Natalia Bryan on July 12, 2024.
@vanessabryant/Instagram
Vanessa posted her own tribute to Natalia on her birthday. She wrote on Instagram, “To my first born, I love you so much! Iâm so proud of the beautiful, smart, talented and loving young woman you are! You are kindness, light and love personified! Happy 22nd birthday @nataliabryant !!! We love you so much Nani-Banani! đâ¤ď¸đđ.”
