Russell Wilson’s infamous “Dangerwich” sandwich is making a return—though with a twist and a new name. Thanks to the iconic Pittsburgh-based restaurant chain, Primanti Bros, Wilson’s short-lived Subway creation has been revived, but with a local spin. After Wilson delivered a solid performance in his Steelers debut, Primanti Bros fulfilled their promise to reimagine the “Dangerwich,” introducing the new “Dangeruss” sandwich.
Primanti Bros teased the comeback of Wilson’s sandwich creation, hinging its revival on Wilson’s performance in his Steelers debut against the New York Jets.
True to their word, after Wilson completed 16-of-29 passes for 264 yards and two touchdowns in Pittsburgh’s dominant 37-15 win, the restaurant brought the revamped sandwich to life. The “Dangeruss” is now officially part of Primanti Bros’ legendary menu, named presumably due to copyright constraints with Subway, where the original sandwich gained (and lost) its fame.
The new “Dangeruss” sandwich features a hearty combination of pepperoni, salami, ham, and bacon. True to Primanti Bros tradition, it’s served “Pittsburgh Style,” a local custom that adds an unmistakable touch to any sandwich.
What Is “Pittsburgh Style”?
Primanti Bros sandwiches are famous for being loaded with melted cheese, crunchy coleslaw, fresh tomato, and a generous serving of French fries—all stacked between two thick slices of toasted Italian bread. This signature style has been a staple of Pittsburgh’s culinary scene, offering a one-of-a-kind flavor profile that fans of the Steel City swear by.
What Was the “Dangerwich” and Why Was It (In)Famous?
The original “Dangerwich,” introduced by Subway in 2022, was part of the company’s “Vault” menu, a digital-only offering that featured sandwiches inspired by high-profile athletes. Wilson’s version, however, became notorious for reasons beyond its ingredients.
The “Dangerwich” was packed with pepperoni, salami, black forest ham, provolone cheese, and bacon on Italian herbs and cheese bread, topped with lettuce, green peppers, tomatoes, banana peppers, yellow mustard, and mayo. Despite its bold ingredient list, many found it to be more strange than spicy—especially considering Wilson’s nickname and social media handle, @DangeRussWilson, had set expectations for something far more daring.
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What followed was a series of awkward and cringeworthy commercials featuring Wilson promoting the sandwich, which quickly became an internet sensation for all the wrong reasons.
Memes flooded social media, poking fun at the over-the-top marketing and Wilson’s delivery. Within months, the “Dangerwich” was pulled from Subway’s menu, making its run one of the shortest-lived—and most memorable—celebrity endorsements in recent fast-food history.
The “Dangeruss” and a New Chapter in Pittsburgh
With the new “Dangeruss” sandwich, Wilson seems to be getting a fresh start both on and off the field. As a new member of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Wilson is stepping into a city known for its passionate fan base and love of football, and the early signs are promising. His performance in Sunday’s win over the Jets—coupled with one of the NFL’s top defenses—has fans in Pittsburgh hopeful for a surprising and potentially special season.
While Wilson has often been the subject of ridicule for his social media presence and marketing campaigns, Steelers fans are willing to look past that if he keeps delivering wins. The “Dangeruss” sandwich, now immortalized by Primanti Bros, represents both a nod to his past and a new chapter in his career.
In a city that embraces hard work and grit, Wilson’s redemption arc may be underway. And for now, both the quarterback and his new sandwich seem to be winning over Pittsburgh—one touchdown and one bite at a time.
