The Pittsburgh Steelers are set to have Russell Wilson starting on Sunday night, with Justin Fields also expected to see some playing time. Wilson, who had been dealing with a calf injury, is now healthy and ready to take the field. Receiver George Pickens confirmed that Wilson will be the one starting the game this week.
Fields, who had started six games in Wilson’s absence, will also have a role in the game according to NFL Media. This creates an interesting dynamic for the Steelers, but it aligns with the team’s plans prior to Wilson’s injury.
It was previously mentioned that a Justin Fields package was in consideration, but the team wanted to ensure it was integrated seamlessly into the offense. Offensive coordinator Arthur Smith had experience with utilizing a similar package for Marcus Mariota in Tennessee, which proved to be effective in critical moments.
The Steelers are emphasizing the importance of Wilson playing within the offensive system and not trying to do too much. At the age of 36, Wilson is looking towards playing until he’s 45, but his performance will dictate his future with the team. The upcoming games against New York teams will be crucial for Wilson to demonstrate his value to the team.
The next two games can potentially shape Wilson’s career with the Steelers. If he performs well, he could solidify his position as the starting quarterback for the remainder of the season. However, any struggles could open the door for Fields to reclaim the starting job.
Looking ahead, if the Steelers decide to move on from Wilson in 2024, there may not be many opportunities for him in the league come 2025. The pressure is on for Wilson to deliver in the upcoming games and prove his worth to the team. The path ahead is clear, and the stakes are high for both Wilson and the Steelers moving forward.
