The Steelers have a big decision to make as to who will start at quarterback against the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday, with both Justin Fields and Russell Wilson pushing their cases this week
Justin Fields has been confirmed to continue as the Pittsburgh Steelers' starting quarterback, while Russell Wilson will be serving as backup in the upcoming clash this weekend.
Despite previous speculation by Steelers' head coach Mike Tomlin that Russell Wilson might take up the starting role, it's been decided that they'll ride with Justin Fields for the approaching face-off against the Las Vegas Raiders.
Mike Tomlin had awarded Wilson the title of starter and offensive captain at the season's kick-off, but a hamstring problem gave Fields the chance to shine. After an initial 3-0 start, Fields' recent showings have left fans exasperated with erratic performances, prompting question marks over the starter with Wilson returning.
Even with a robust week of practice, impressing against the first-team defence, and sparking curiosity among media about his impending role, Wilson has maintained his focus is on readiness and victory regardless of his position on the depth chart.
On the prospect of playing this weekend, Wilson stated: "That's a good question. I think for me I'm preparing in my mind to be ready to go. That's kind of my mentality, to help us win, whatever that is.
"We all want to play. We all want to be out there. I've never been in this place that I'm in, and it's tough. But at the same time, you know there are better days ahead. There are challenges along the way."
Wilson, who's been the Steelers' emergency third-choice quarterback this season while grappling with his hamstring injury, is ready to take over if needed.
The former Super Bowl champion said: "I feel confident I'll be ready to play and play at a high level. I think we're being really smart.
"This is my first week of really being back out there with the guys and playing, so I feel really confident about that. The ball is spinning. That's a good thing. I have no doubt in my mind once I step in between the white lines that I'll be ready to go."
Wilson also spoke on his recovery progress, stating: "The biggest thing is being able to run and move around well. I've started to run the past couple of weeks, a little bit by little bit every day and be smart about it.
"I was able to move around today. It's a process. It's a process that I don't love, but also, at the same time, you get to figure out your mental fortitude. You can always lead in different ways. That's important. This is a big game for us. We're 3-2, and we have to focus on playing a really talented Raiders team."
