With Russell Wilson still battling an aggravated calf injury, the Pittsburgh Steelers are getting ready for quarterback Justin Fields to take the helm against the Denver Broncos this Sunday. Head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed on Tuesday that the team is preparing as if Fields will be their starter.
“As I sit here today, we’re preparing as if Justin is going to be our quarterback,” Tomlin stated. “Russell is hurt and unavailable, so our focus is on getting Justin ready.”
Wilson will not participate fully in Wednesday’s practice, and a decision about his involvement for the rest of the week will be made after consulting with team doctors. Although Tomlin usually expects players to practice on Fridays if they are to play on Sunday, he noted there’s flexibility for veterans like Wilson.
Tomlin also refrained from making any definitive statements about Wilson’s starting status if he becomes healthy. “That’s a big if,” Tomlin remarked. “Right now, he’s not healthy, so our focus is on Justin’s readiness.”
Fields performed well in his first start for the Steelers last week, completing 17 of 23 passes for 156 yards and rushing for 57 yards. Tomlin praised Fields’ poise, saying, “He settled in as the game progressed and showed good decision-making.”
As Wilson continues his recovery, Fields looks set to lead the Steelers again on Sunday.
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