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Steelers HC Mike Tomlin Named Russell Wilson Week 1 Starting QB

After a close battle for the Pittsburgh Steelers' starting quarterback role, head coach Mike Tomlin revealed to the media that Russell Willson will start the team's 2024 season opener against the Atlanta Falcons.

Wilson joined the Steelers when he signed a one-year veteran minimum contract after getting released by the Denver Broncos. His release left Denver with an NFL record $85 million in dead money, which they've split over two seasons.

Wilson can afford to sign the minimum because the Broncos will give him a $37 million injury guarantee this year. However, being with the Steelers allows him to prove his doubters after a disappointing stint with the Broncos.

Steelers fans hope Wilson can rediscover the form that made him a Super Bowl champion, a one-time All-Pro, and a nine-time Pro Bowler. That resurgence could help the Steelers enter the AFC playoffs for the fourth time in five seasons and their first postseason victory since 2016.

With Wilson winning the starting role, Justin Fields will be his top backup. The Chicago Bears traded Fields to Pittsburgh for a conditional 2025 sixth-round pick and another fourth-round pick if he played at least 51 percent of the Steelers' offensive snaps. Barring any roster changes, Fields can use this experience to learn more from Wilson.

Finally, Kyle Allen completes the Steelers quarterback depth chart. Since entering the league as an undrafted rookie in 2018, the veteran from the University of Houston has played for four teams before joining Pittsburgh.

-Lance Fernandez

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