No revenge game for Russell Wilson as Steelers prepare to start Justin Fields against the Broncos

Mike Tomlin confirmed that the Steelers are preparing with Justin Fields as the starter for the match against Denver over Russell Wilson.


No revenge game for Russell Wilson as Steelers prepare to start Justin Fields against the Broncos

Russell Wilson and Justin Fields (Via Imago)

Russell Wilson had the golden chance to seek his revenge from his former team, the Denver Broncos, and head coach Sean Payton for the way they treated him last season, in a week 2 matchup against them. However, there appears to be a twist in the story as the Pittsburgh Steelers have decided to again give the starting role to Justin Fields instead of Wilson. 

Given that Fields clinched a victory against the Atlanta Falcons in the season-opener at an astounding 18-10. He completed 17 out of his 23 passes for 156 yards with zero interceptions as well as touchdowns. 

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While addressing the media on Tuesday, the Steelers’ head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed that the team is preparing with Fields as the starter for the upcoming match against the Broncos on September 16. Adding that, he also dismissed the revenge rumors saying that the team has decided to give the veteran quarterback some rest while recovering from his calf injury. 

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Over the course of the week, we’ll be analyzing whether (Wilson is) capable of protecting himself, whether he’s capable of being productive. But as I sit here today, we’re preparing as if Justin is going to be our quarterback. I think that’s the appropriate way to do it. Speculation is a waste of time. Russell’s hurt. He’s not available to us.
Mike Tomlin said

Tomlin shared that initially, the plan to start the season was for the nine-time Pro Bowler only. However, after he sustained a calf injury, they believe the smart decision is to have Fields in the center until the veteran returns to his best health. 

Mike Tomlin provides update on Russell Wilson’s injury

While talking about Wilson, the Steelers head coach also gave an update on his recovery but stated that his presence on Sunday is quite uncertain and he does not wish to speculate otherwise. He assured the fans that Wilson’s recovery was speedy and that if everything went well, he would return to the football field quite soon. 

I just visited with him. He feels better today than he did over the weekend. What that means, I don't know as we sit here today. I know that we're going to take the same approach that we take with a lot of people in terms of injury.
Mike Tomlin added
Russell Wilson
Russell Wilson (Via Imago)

Tomlin further stated that even after Wilson returned, the team wouldn’t immediately throw him on the field. They would first check if he is ready for participation, at what level he is participating, and how well he is doing it. 

The Steelers want to ascertain that the signal-caller would be able to protect himself and be productive. Nonetheless, Wilson’s return remains a big question mark and until then, Fields has the chance to rebuild his image.

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