The Pittsburgh Steelers completed their second day of practice in Latrobe. Players arrived at their dorms on Wednesday and started practicing on Thursday. Fans were excited to see new quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Justin Fields compete during training camp. However, Wilson has not participated in practice due to a sore calf.
Sebastian Foltz / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Steelers' Russell Wilson throws the football as Justin Fields looks on.
Wilson wanted to practice on Thursday and Friday, but the Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin and staff decided to hold him out. Tomlin joked that he's creating some "misery" for Wilson. The quarterback competition has been a major topic of discussion throughout the offseason, with some believing it's not a real competition and that Wilson will start regardless.
#Steelers QB Russell Wilson on how QB Justin Fields has looked in his absence.
— Aaron Becker (@Aaron_M_Becker) July 26, 2024
“He’s done a good job. Every plays he’s going against a really good defense. … He’s a really good competitor. He processes well and he’s a tremendous young talent, for sure.” pic.twitter.com/98eQoeLD33
Pundits have expressed concern about Wilson's job security as he sits out, giving Fields more opportunities to show his skills. Nonetheless, Wilson has maintained a positive mindset and has been a team player. He spoke with Aaron Becker after Friday's practice, expressing his admiration for Fields' performance.
"He’s done a good job," Wilson said. "Every play, he’s going against a really good defense. He’s made some really great plays. Plays that he responds back to and that’s the part of practice he’s doing a good job. He’s a really good competitor. He processes well and he’s a tremendous young talent, for sure.”
The quarterback competition for the Steelers has been downplayed, with Tomlin skillfully managing the narrative. At 35 years old, Wilson has proven himself as an elite NFL quarterback over more than a decade, despite a few hiccups during his tenure with the Denver Broncos.
Even with 26 touchdowns and eight interceptions in the 2023 season, Wilson couldn’t lead the Broncos to many victories. Broncos Head Coach Sean Payton thought so little of Wilson's performance in Denver that he agreed to pay millions to get him off the team. Wilson is eager to prove that he wasn't the problem in Denver and is looking forward to getting back on the field.
RJ Sangosti / The Denver Post / Getty Images
Steelers' Russell Wilson speaks with Head Coach Sean Payton during his time with the Denver Broncos.
Fields also joins the Steelers after struggling to establish himself with the Chicago Bears, who drafted him in the first round. Fields showed flashes of brilliance, with highlights that could impress any fan, but his inconsistencies raised concerns. He sometimes holds onto the ball too long and makes questionable decisions, though his running ability is a significant asset. The Bears decided to move on from Fields when they had the opportunity to draft quarterback Caleb Williams in 2024.
Steelers' Russell Wilson Eager To Get Back On The Field
Despite Wilson's absence from practice due to a minor calf injury, the Steelers' quarterback room is healthy and competitive. Wilson's experience and leadership are valuable assets, and fans are eager to see him return to the field. There is no set timetable for his return, but reports indicate that his injury is not a cause for concern. Wilson, a nine-time Pro Bowler, is clearly motivated to prove himself and enjoys watching Fields' progress.
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Steelers' Justin Fields watches Russell Wilson throw the ball.
In the meantime, the Steelers are in good hands with a talented group of quarterbacks, and the fans are excited about the potential for a successful season. The 2023 season the Steelers saw historically poor quarterback play. Despite this they still won 10 games. Imagine how much greater of a football team the Steelers can become with improved quarterback play.
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