Steelers create opportunity for Russell Wilson to take the field

Russell Wilson is once again in contention to be the starting quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers, who have a 4-2 record with Justin Fields leading the offense.

In preparation for their upcoming game against the New York Jets on Sunday, head coach Mike Tomlin announced that Wilson will be taking first-team reps alongside Fields.

According to Tomlin, "Russ proved his fitness last week. We are seriously considering him this week."

Also see this picks: Minnesota vs. Los Angeles Rams Pick & Prediction OCT 24th 2024 Also see this picks: Denver Broncos vs. New Orleans Saints Pick & Prediction OCTOBER 17th 2024

Pittsburgh is currently tied for first place in the AFC North. During the offseason, the team decided to move on from 2022 first-round pick Kenny Pickett and top backup Mason Rudolph, who combined for 10 total touchdowns in 17 regular-season games in 2023 - the same number of touchdowns Fields has in six games this season.

Wilson, who is 35 years old, has started at least 14 regular-season games every year since being drafted by the Seahawks in 2012. He was active for the first time last week as the backup quarterback behind Fields.

Tomlin explained, "Throughout the week, I became confident in his ability to show his fitness. You gain a better understanding by being in the helmet and seeing the reactions and decision-making. Additionally, his overall experience and track record make me more comfortable compared to players with less experience. This is something I consider for players in other positions as well. With veteran players, there is a sense of comfort that comes with their experience, especially in difficult conversations."

Tomlin also mentioned that the team is not in a rush to make a decision on who will start, and that Wilson needs to "shake off the rust" in practice after not playing in a game since August.

During training camp, Fields and Wilson competed for the starting job while Wilson was dealing with a calf injury. Tomlin waited until the final preseason game to name Wilson as the starter for Week 1, but his injury resurfaced and Fields has been the starting quarterback for the first six games of the season.

Fields has thrown five touchdown passes, one interception, and has a passer rating of 93.9. He is also tied for fifth in the league with five rushing touchdowns.