The Pittsburgh Steelers are planning to start Justin Fields over former Wisconsin quarterback Russell Wilson for the second straight week, per head coach Mike Tomlin.
The news arrives two days after Fields made his Steeler debut against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday. Wilson, who earned starting responsibilities in late August, is currently dealing with persisting calf tightness.
Wilson first encountered the calf ailments during the first days of Pittsburgh’s 2024 training camp window in July. About a month later, he self-reported his calf injury two days before Sunday’s season opener against the Falcons.
In Wilson’s absence, Fields registered 17 completions for 156 passing yards and a passer rating of 91.9. He also rushed 14 times for 57 yards in the 18-10 win.
Notably, Fields failed to lead his offensive group to a single touchdown drive on the day. Kicker Chris Boswell scored all 18 points for Pittsburgh, and defensive star T.J. Watt helped quell Kirk Cousins-led Falcons offense throughout the entire afternoon.
Unfortunately for Wilson, he will not see the field in his first game against the Denver Broncos since his departure. In two years with Denver, Wilson went 11-19 as the team’s starting quarterback.
Tomlin did note, however, that Wilson is progressing. It could be a bit of coach speak, but any positive update to Wilson’s health would increase the likelihood of playing in Week 3 and beyond.
For now, it’ll be Fields taking snaps under center. Denver hosts Pittsburgh at 3:25 p.m. CT on Sept. 15.