Former Wisconsin Badgers quarterback Russell Wilson added a bit more doubt on his availability for Sunday’s Week 1 conteest vs. the Atlanta Falcons.
During the Steelers’ individual period at Friday’s practice, Wilson watched on as former Chicago Bear Justin Fields launched throws to receivers. He exited Thursday’s practice after self-reporting a calf issue and appears to have engaged in individual stretching away from the team, per ESPN’s Brooke Pryor.
Following the practice window, Wilson also addressed his status for Sunday with the local media. Here’s what Wilson said, as captured by The Athletic’s Mike DeFabo.
“If I can go, I’m going to go and try to do everything I can to help us win… if not, I’m going to do everything I can to help us win in that way, too…I’m trying to get my body ready to go and rock and roll. So we’re doing everything that we can.”
https://twitter.com/MikeDeFabo/status/1832119102707790337
https://twitter.com/bepryor/status/1832101105427484955
Wilson earned the starting job in late August over Fields, who is a dynamic rushing weapon when performing at full capacity.
At this point, the signs suggest Fields could see the field on Sept. 8 in Atlanta. Given Wilson’s age and decline in play over the past few seasons, it may serve as a blessing in disguise for a Steelers team in search for a franchise quarterback.