Wisconsin legend expected to make preseason debut vs. Buffalo Bills

Former Badger icon expected to make preseason debut vs. Buffalo Bills

Former Wisconsin quarterback Russell Wilson is expected to make his Pittsburgh Steelers preseason debut on Saturday, per head coach Mike Tomlin.

Wilson was initially sidelined with a calf issue to open the Steelers’ training camp, but he enters Pittsburgh’s second preseason match with as the lead quarterback on the unit’s depth chart ahead of former Chicago Bears QB Justin Fields.

The UW alumnus will square off against the Buffalo Bills in what will be his first action in a live contest for the Steelers. Wilson signed in Pittsburgh in March after a two-year stint with the Denver Broncos.

While Fields’ speed, quickness and youth may have appeared enticing for offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, Wilson’s stability, leadership and previous success in big spots proved the difference in the battle for the starting role.

For Badger fans, this will mark the third jersey Wilson has sported since leaving Madison. He played 10 seasons with the Seattle Seahawks before his time with Denver from 2022-23.