The Pittsburgh Steelers had officially named Russell Wilson as their starting quarterback for the upcoming game against the Atlanta Falcons. However, Wilson's preparation for Week 1 had been hindered by a calf injury. On Thursday, just before the game, Wilson was limited in practice due to the injury, which originally occurred during a conditioning test before training camp. He missed several practices in camp while managing the soreness.
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Steelers QBs Justin Fields and Russell Wilson look on during practice.
This situation allowed Justin Fields, the Steelers' other new quarterback, to gain valuable reps with the starters during the offseason. There were genuine concerns leading up to the game about Wilson's availability. While warming up, Wilson assessed his readiness but ultimately decided he wasn't able to play.
As a result, Fields learned just two hours before kickoff that he would be starting. After the Steelers' 18-10 victory, Fields shared with the Pittsburgh media details about his pregame conversation with Wilson.
"Russ came in after warming up and he told me that I was up. Like you said all week, he was questionable, just trying to get his calf right and get going, but he told me right before the game."
Both Wilson and Fields have handled this unusual situation with remarkable professionalism. The Steelers acquired Wilson after his challenging stint with the Denver Broncos, who were willing to pay a significant amount just to move on from him.
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Steelers' Russell Wilson and Justin Fields run on the field before a game.
Fields, too, joined the Steelers under unconventional circumstances. After starting as the Chicago Bears' quarterback for the past three seasons, he was traded to Pittsburgh following the 2023 season as the Bears opted to pursue a new direction at quarterback.
Despite the potential for frustration or resentment over the quarterback competition, both Wilson and Fields have remained positive and supportive. Wilson, though disappointed not to start, was seen on the sidelines in pads, cheering on Fields.
Fields has shared that growing up, Wilson was one of his favorite players. He admired Wilson's highlights and tried to emulate his style. Now, Fields finds himself in the same quarterback room as his idol. With a lot of untapped potential, Fields has shown impressive playmaking abilities and is a significant threat as a rusher.
Questions about whether Fields is a franchise quarterback still linger. When the Steelers acquired him, they made it clear they wanted him to learn from Wilson. It must have been gratifying for Fields to step in for Wilson, secure a win, and perform well.
Steelers' Justin Fields Has Respectable Performance In Week 1
In the game, Fields was somewhat restrained. The Steelers didn’t let him throw extensively, but when he did, he delivered effectively. Fields kept the offense moving, converting first downs, and utilizing his legs. He completed 17 of 23 passes for 156 yards and rushed 14 times for 57 yards in his regular season debut with the Steelers.
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Steelers' Justin Fields looks to pass in Pittsburgh's Week 1 victory over the Atlanta Falcons in 2024.
Fields also developed good chemistry with star wide receiver George Pickens, contributing to a more cohesive offensive performance. While it wasn’t an explosive showing, the offense looked more fluid and confident. This win offers a reason for optimism among Steelers fans.
Looking ahead, the key question is whether Wilson will be healthy enough to start in Week 2 against the Broncos, the team that has blamed him for their past struggles. If Wilson is fit, it will be a revenge game for him. His health will ultimately decide if he takes the field.
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