A significant change could be on the horizon for the Pittsburgh Steelers‘ quarterback situation.
Wilson ready to roll as Steelers #1 QB
Veteran quarterback Russell Wilson is in consideration to start in Week 7 against the New York Jets, according to reports.
NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero confirmed that Wilson will take first-team reps in practice this week, setting the stage for a potential start after serving as the backup to Justin Fields.
Although Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin stopped short of naming Wilson the starter during his press conference on Tuesday, he made it clear that the option is on the table.
“We’ll see where that leads us,” Tomlin said.
“I’ll acknowledge that Russ proved his health last week, and we’re looking hard at him this week. It is up for consideration.”
Wilson, 35, has been waiting for his chance to take over as Pittsburgh’s starting quarterback after a calf injury sidelined him earlier this season.
Originally named the starter during training camp, Wilson lost the job to Fields just before the season opener.
Fields, acquired by the Steelers in a trade from the Chicago Bears, has led Pittsburgh to a 4-2 start, including a dominant 32-13 win over the Las Vegas Raiders last Sunday.
Wilson’s pedigree could benefit Steelers
Tomlin praised Fields’ performance after the game, highlighting the young quarterback’s ability to manage the game and contribute with his legs.
“I thought he did a nice job, particularly making some things happen with his legs, managing the circumstances and taking care of the ball,”Tomlin noted.
However, with Wilson now fully recovered, the Steelers may be considering a quarterback change ahead of their Week 7 matchup.
Wilson, a nine-time Pro Bowler and Super Bowl champion, was brought to Pittsburgh in the offseason on a one-year deal.
His resume speaks for itself, though his recent seasons with the Denver Broncos didn’t meet the high expectations set earlier in his career.
After a difficult stint in Denver, where he threw for over 3,000 yards, 26 touchdowns, and 8 interceptions in 2023, Wilson is eager for a fresh start in Pittsburgh.
Upon joining the Steelers, he expressed optimism about what he could bring to the team.
“I think I’m really excited about just the opportunity to really be the best version of myself every day,” Wilson said in March.
“I know what it looks like to win, and this team does, too.”
The Steelers will need to carefully weigh their options, as Tomlin hinted the decision remains fluid.
Whether Wilson starts on Sunday or continues as the backup, the competition for the Steelers’ QB1 role is far from settled.