Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson had previously spoken about his role with the franchise ahead of a major change in Week Seven.
The 35-year-old joined the Steelers in the off-season having spent two seasons with the Denver Broncos after an illustrious spell with the Seattle Seahawks. However, he’s had to remain patient for his opportunity, which now looks set to finally come in against the New York Jets on Sunday.
According to NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero, the Steelers plan to give Wilson first-team duties in practice this week, putting him firmly in line to make his season debut as Pittsburgh’s starting quarterback. Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin said that Wilson and Justin Fields, who has been the leading signal caller so far this season, will both practice this week.
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Speaking on Tuesday, Tomlin said: “[Russell Wilson] is in consideration this week. We’ll see where that leads us.” He later added: “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 has already addressed his position with the Steelers after being named as the starter and offensive captain before the season but the veteran suffered a hamstring injury before week one which saw Fields step in to replace him. Responding to questions whether he’d start against the Las Vegas Raiders, he replied: “That’s a good question.
“I think for me I’m preparing in my mind to be ready to go. That’s kind of my mentality, to help us win, whatever that is. We all want to play. We all want to be out there. I’ve never been in this place that I’m in, and it’s tough. But at the same time, you know there are better days ahead. There are challenges along the way.”
Justin Fields has been Pittsburgh’s starting quarterback (
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Fields has started the first six games of the season, helping the Steelers to a 4-2 start but the offense has been inconsistent leading to Fields throwing fewer than 150 yards and completing less than 60 per cent of his passes. “Justin has been really good, and we’ve been good at times, but not to be confused with great,” Tomlin said when asked about the 25-year-old’s start to the campaign.
“This is a competitive league, man. We’re trying to position ourselves to be that team, and we’ve got a player with talent, who hadn’t have an opportunity to play, so we’re going to explore those things. Sometimes it doesn’t have anything to do with what Justin has done or has not done.
“Justin has been an asset to us. Last week, for example, his ability to utilize his legs by design and by ad lib was a significant component of that game. He rushed for 50-plus yards and two touchdowns. … We’re appreciative of that. We’re appreciative of how he’s taken care of the ball. But we’re just looking at all of the people at our disposal. The same way we do at any position,” Tomlin added.
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