As Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed, quarterback Russell Wilson is dealing with a calf issue. However, the injury’s severity remains uncertain. Likewise, it’s too early to tell if this injury will diminish Wilson’s chances of winning the starting role in Pittsburgh.
Wilson signed for the league minimum during the offseason after the Denver Broncos waived him despite incurring a league-record $85 million dead money. It looked like the starting role was his to lose after the Steelers dealt Kenny Pickett to the Philadelphia Eagles.
#Steelers QB Russell Wilson woke up with a calf issue this morning and was held out of practice, per HC Mike Tomlin. He’s considered day-to-day. Justin Fields took first-team reps. pic.twitter.com/fxH0wco0JK
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) July 25, 2024
But after locking up Wilson for 2024, the Steelers traded for Justin Fields to spark a quarterback competition. While Wilson had the edge in the contest, Fields looked impressive while taking first-team snaps in Wilson’s absence.
Since Wilson is on a one-year contract, his 2024 performance will determine his chances of landing another contract with the Steelers or another NFL team. Granted that he beats Fields for the starting role, he could secure an extension with Pittsburgh if he leads the team to their first playoff victory since 2016.
-Lance Fernandez