Steelers stick with QB Justin Fields, avoid 'hypotheticals' around Russell Wilson

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin understands the significance of starting the season 2-0, but the Los Angeles Chargers will come to Pittsburgh for their home opener with the same record.

\"They have a strong defense and a clear identity, which I am familiar with,\" Tomlin stated on Tuesday. \"I know their offensive coordinator, Greg Roman, very well. I'm sure he's not concerned about us knowing his strategies. That's what makes him one of the best in the business.\"

While Roman is working with Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh to prepare their injured quarterback Justin Herbert, Tomlin mentioned that the Steelers will continue to rely on Justin Fields as their starting quarterback, as Russell Wilson is unlikely to practice on Wednesday.

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\"As of now, Russell is not expected to fully participate in practice,\" Tomlin explained. \"We will monitor his progress throughout the week. Right now, we are preparing for Justin to be our quarterback. We will continue with that mindset until something changes. Speculating is a waste of time. We will stick with our current plan.\"

Tomlin praised Fields' competitive spirit and ability to perform well in different environments.

However, when asked if Fields has secured the starting position once Wilson is cleared, Tomlin did not provide a direct answer.

\"I am focused on the next game. Until Russell is ready to play, I will not speculate,\" Tomlin stated. \"I have already made my position clear on the depth chart, and it will not change until Russell is ready. I do not like to speculate. I am not sure how many times I have to say this.\"

Tomlin also had positive things to say about both quarterbacks, praising Wilson for his professionalism and leadership during a difficult time and Fields for his fierce competitiveness.

He also mentioned that the decision at quarterback could change once Wilson is healthy, but for now, they are sticking with Fields.

As they prepare to face the Chargers, the Steelers are also keeping an eye on former Baltimore running backs J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards, who are now the main running backs for the Chargers and have been performing well, averaging 5.6 yards per carry.

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The Chargers also have a familiar face on their coaching staff, defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, who Tomlin worked with when Minter's father, Rick Minter, was the head coach at the University of Cincinnati.

Tomlin also mentioned that left guard Isaac Seumalo may be close to returning from his pectoral injury if he can participate in practice this week. He has missed the first two games of the season.