The Pittsburgh Steelers named Russell Wilson their starter going into the 2024 season, but the veteran signal-caller has yet to play due to a calf injury. In his stead, the Steelers have started fellow quarterback Justin Fields.
Wilson wasn't able to suit up again in Week 3. He turned in three limited practices and drew a questionable tag before he was ruled inactive for the contest against the Los Angeles Chargers.
During the week, Wilson said he's getting closer to his return, but that's something we've heard him say before.
"I'm definitely gaining ground. I feel good," Wilson said, per ESPN's Brooke Pryor. "I was able to do a lot more work today, yesterday, so we're getting better every day."
According to Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Wilson is expected to resume practicing this coming week, which gives him a chance to play in Week 4 against the Indianapolis Colts.
"Russell Wilson is scheduled to resume practice this week," Dulac said. "Now we'll wait and see where that leads... The decision is going to be two-pronged. Part of it will be, OK, let's see if this offense can maybe generate some more points. Obviously, they haven't in the first two games (with) just one touchdown. But also, will Mike Tomlin - if the Steelers win - will he change from the hot hand? I'm not so sure that he will. I don't know that.
"Russell Wilson is his quarterback. That's why he was brought in. He was brought in for late in the season and hopefully in the postseason and hopefully to win a game, but we shall wee next week, depending on what happens today perhaps."
While the Steelers won their first two games with Fields under center, the offense hasn't been good, although that isn't entirely Fields' fault, as pass protection has been poor and penalties have been an issue.
Even if Pittsburgh manages to win in Week 3, Fields keeping the job could depend on how the offense performs overall against the Chargers. If it's not good again, the Steelers will likely turn the ball over to Wilson to see if he can have more success, assuming he's healthy enough to play.