Russell Wilson may take the starting QB role for the Steelers, replacing Justin Fields in their upcoming game against the Jets, according to insider reports.
Oct 6, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson (3) works out before a game against the Dallas Cowboys at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images
The Russell Wilson era seems to be dawning in Pittsburgh. The veteran quarterback is set to take first-team reps this week, after a lingering calf injury kept him off the field earlier this season. He’s now “in line” to start over Justin Fields in Sunday night’s game against the Jets, according to NFL Network.
Although Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin hasn’t officially confirmed a change, he mentioned that Wilson is “under consideration” to be QB1 for Sunday, despite Pittsburgh’s solid 4-2 start.
“We’ll see where that leads us,” Tomlin stated, as reported by NFL.com. “I’ll acknowledge that Russ proved his health last week, and we’re looking hard at him this week. It is up for consideration.”
Wilson’s impressive track record vs. Fields’ untapped potential
Wilson, a nine-time Pro Bowler, boasts a Super Bowl win with the Seattle Seahawks. On the other hand, Fields hasn’t quite met expectations after being picked in the first round by the Chicago Bears in 2021.
However, Wilson’s recent track record isn’t spotless—he’s gone 11-19 as a starter in the past two seasons with the Denver Broncos and didn’t show the same form that made him shine in Seattle. Plus, with his 36th birthday around the corner, his mobility has noticeably declined compared to Fields.
Fields’ ability to escape pressure and extend plays has been a game-changer for the Steelers this season. He’s already racked up 231 rushing yards and five touchdowns on the ground.
The main question hanging over the Ohio State alum has always been his accuracy as a passer. But with a 66.3% completion rate this season, he’s set to hit a career-high. So far, he’s thrown for 1,106 yards, five touchdowns, and just one interception across six games.
Mike Tomlin hints at Russell Wilson’s limitations after weighing Justin Fields
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin admitted that Russell Wilson, unlike Justin Fields, lacks the ability to evade defensive pressure, making it a tough decision as he considers starting the veteran.
Wilson, following his release from the Denver Broncos, signed a one-year deal with the AFC North squad. However, a calf injury limited his participation during the offseason, which gave Fields valuable opportunities to lead the first-team offense.
During the preseason, the offense seemed to flow better with Fields at the helm compared to Wilson. Nevertheless, Tomlin named Wilson as the starter for Week 1. But due to recurring issues, Fields started the season instead.
Though the Steelers’ quarterback performance hasn’t been stellar, Fields has led the team to a 4-2 record. In 2024, he’s passed for 1,106 yards with five touchdowns and one interception, while also contributing 231 rushing yards and five touchdowns.
This Tuesday, Tomlin made it clear: Wilson is in the mix to lead the team against the Jets on Sunday. Fields could be watching from the sidelines if there’s a change at quarterback.
The idea of Wilson taking snaps behind Pittsburgh’s fragile offensive line has raised concerns, especially compared to Fields’ evasiveness. When asked if Wilson could dodge defenders the way Fields did in the Raiders game, Tomlin didn’t hesitate: “No, he does not.”
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Image Credit: © Barry Reeger-Imagn Images
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