The Pittsburgh Steelers face a crucial decision this weekend at quarterback — will Russell Wilson take the field against the Atlanta Falcons? The veteran quarterback has been dealing with a nagging calf strain, which limited him in practice leading up to Sunday.
Is Russell Wilson Playing Today?
Update 09/08/2024: Russell Wilson is officially inactive today. Justin Fields will be the starter for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Now in his first season with the Steelers, Wilson has a chance to prove that he’s still got it after two underwhelming years with the Denver Broncos. Narratives can change quickly in the NFL, and a string of strong outings for Mike Tomlin and Co. can revive his career and legacy.
While the 35-year-old Wilson has expressed his desire to play, team doctors are being cautious, and a final call is expected just before kickoff.
Adam Schefter of ESPN.com reported earlier that Wilson desires to take the risk and play against the Falcons.
Steelers QB Russell Wilson, listed as questionable for Sunday due to a calf injury, has told the team that he can play vs. the Falcons, but the team doctors are being more cautious, per sources. The team plans to make a final decision about his status Sunday. If Wilson can’t…
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 8, 2024
However, Steelers beat writer Gerry Dulac suggests it’s highly unlikely we’ll see him play.
Russell Wilson still holding out hope he can play vs Falcons, though chances are very slim, per sources. Another treatment tonight and tomorrow am. He has not been ruled out…yet.
— Gerry Dulac (@gerrydulac) September 7, 2024
If Wilson is sidelined, Justin Fields will get the nod. Fields could prove his worth with a confidence-instilling performance against the Falcons — ball security will be paramount. Backup quarterback Kyle Allen is also an option for Pittsburgh.
But one thing is certain: Wilson’s Steelers future was already volatile, and Fields potentially starting could succumb him to a life on the sidelines.
How Did Wilson Grab the Starting QB Role With the Steelers?
The former Broncos quarterback grabbed the Steelers’ QB1 role, but the decision didn’t come with much fanfare. Wilson played only one series against the Detroit Lions in his second preseason start, completing 2 of 2 passes for 26 yards. A 32-yard bomb to George Pickens was the highlight, setting up a touchdown run by Cordarrelle Patterson.
Russ finds Pickens 👀
📺: #PITvsDET on @NFLNetwork
📱: Stream on #NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/h1UfOJUZWH— NFL (@NFL) August 24, 2024
Despite limited action, the Steelers head coach appeared confident in Wilson’s veteran experience to name him the starter for Week 1 against the Falcons. This bold move surprised many, considering Fields’ impressive showing of late.
In his preseason action, Fields demonstrated his mobility by rolling out of the pocket and running for first downs. However, inconsistency held him back. T
here’s no denying that Fields’ ability to run brings an unpredictable dynamic element to the offense. With that said, Tomlin seems to favor Wilson’s experience and calm demeanor under pressure.
As Pittsburgh gears up for the regular season, the real test will be whether Wilson can lead the team to victories and maintain the starting role with Fields on his heels.