The Pittsburgh Steelers have received some surprising news about their starting quarterback, Russell Wilson, that surfaced on Thursday. This offseason, the Steelers made significant changes to their quarterback room, parting ways with their three quarterbacks from 2023 and bringing in Wilson and Justin Fields. Despite much debate over who would be the best fit to lead the team, Wilson ultimately earned the starting role.
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Steelers' Russell Wilson and Justin Fields run on the field before a game.
As the Week 1 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons approaches, Wilson's availability is now in question due to health concerns. During the conditioning test at the start of training camp, Wilson sustained a sore calf injury, which caused him to miss several practices. Although he returned to full health, Wilson was limited in practice on Thursday and Friday, and he is now listed as questionable for the game against the Falcons. The injury has popped back up and casted doubts into Wilson's status for Sunday.
Steelers insider Mark Kaboly appeared on 93.7 The Fan to discuss the upcoming game and expressed serious doubts about Wilson's chances of playing on Sunday. Kaboly's comments reflect growing concerns about whether Wilson will be ready to start in the season opener, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the team's quarterback situation.
"I would be absolutely shocked if Russell Wilson plays on Sunday."
The Steelers are fortunate to have two capable starting quarterbacks on their roster. Wilson, despite two challenging seasons with the Denver Broncos, has built an impressive NFL career. Fields, with three years of starting experience, has shown potential but has also faced his share of struggles.
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Steelers' Mike Tomlin shakes hands with former Seahawks QB Russell Wilson after a game.
This offseason, there was considerable debate about who should be the starting quarterback. It seemed that Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin and the organization viewed Wilson as the best option to win immediately. Meanwhile, Fields was acquired with the understanding that he would learn from Wilson, potentially positioning him as the future of the franchise.
Wilson's lingering calf injury has opened up additional opportunities for Fields. With Wilson sidelined, Fields has had the chance to practice with the starters and gain valuable experience.
He's shown Steelers fans glimpses of his exciting potential as a quarterback. However, there are concerns about Fields' ability to protect the football; over his three seasons, he has fumbled 38 times and thrown 30 interceptions.
Steelers' Justin Fields Appearing More Likely To Start Week 1
Given Wilson's ongoing injury issues, it appears increasingly likely that Fields will have the chance to start in Week 1. If Kaboly's insights are accurate, Fields would be the starter, which could be both concerning and exciting for Steeler Nation.
Fans are eager to see what Wilson, at 35 years old, can bring to the field, while others are enthusiastic about the prospect of Fields as the younger, more dynamic option. Now the Steelers may have lost control on who the starter is. If Wilson isn't 100% they would be foolish to send a 35 year old quarterback out in an entirely new situation. It's a disaster waiting to happen.
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Steelers' Justin Fields watches Russell Wilson throw the ball.
Ultimately, Wilson's health will determine the starting quarterback. Regardless of who takes the field, the Steelers will have a quarterback they believe can lead them to victory. It would be disappointing for fans not to see Wilson's potential in Week 1, but the Steelers are fortunate to have Fields ready to step up and prove he can start in the league.
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