As the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare for the Denver Broncos, Mike Tomlin‘s approach to the quarterback situation is no different than Week 1.
Once Russell Wilson reported calf aggravation on Thursday, it was immediately next-man-up in Tomlin’s mind — Justin Fields became the focus of practice and game planning.
At the top of his Broncos preview press conference, Tomlin shared that Wilson feels better now than he did over the weekend but doesn’t know what that means.
As usual, Wilson’s level of participation this week will dictate his playing status for Sunday, but the Steelers will prepare as if Fields will start in Denver.
Tomlin refused to speculate whether Wilson would regain starter status once healthy.
“Speculation is a waste of time,” Tomlin said. “Russell’s hurt. He’s not available to us. As you guys know, as a general practice, I focus my energy on those that are available and their readiness.”
Tomlin is excited about “maybe” going through a complete week with Fields at the helm. He did not start taking first-team reps until the second day of practice last week.
Wilson is scheduled to be a limited participant in the Steelers’ first practice for the Broncos tomorrow.
Even if Tomlin knows which quarterback is starting, it will likely not be officially revealed until inactive players are announced at 3 p.m. on Sunday.
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