Former Wisconsin quarterback Russell Wilson received a game ball after the Pittsburgh Steelers’ 13-6 victory over the Denver Broncos on Sunday.
Ironically, Wilson did not play a single snap during the triumph. Former Chicago Bear Justin Fields filled in for the 2013 Super Bowl champion for the second consecutive week.
Wilson, who has been hampered with a calf injury dating back to the first days of the Steelers’ 2024 training camp, received the nod because of his connection to the Broncos. The nine-time Pro Bowler played for Denver from 2022-23 and amassed an 11-19 mark as the team’s starting quarterback.
The headlines surrounding Wilson’s tenure in Denver weren’t the greatest either. He and former Saints head coach Sean Payton butted heads on several occasions which ultimately morphed into national headlines relatively quickly afterward.
#Steelers QB Justin Fields said they gave Russell Wilson a “petty game ball” after the win over Denver.
“I think we all know, Russ kinda got did dirty last year. I know he wishes he could have played in this game. It’s awesome to get this win for him.” pic.twitter.com/sjpfsGeTbQ
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) September 16, 2024
Nonetheless, Wilson’s career numbers speak for themselves. Fields thinks so as well.
“Russ kinda got did dirty last year,” Fields said after the win. “I know he wishes he could have played in this game. It’s awesome to get this win for him.”
The Steelers will face the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday, Sept. 22. With Fields at 2-0, it would be a surprise if head coach Mike Tomlin made any move at the position. Barring any major breakthrough, Fields should start next week for Pittsburgh.