The Pittsburgh Steelers' 2024 offseason was full of intrigue. It began with the signing of quarterback Russell Wilson to a one-year deal at the veteran minimum. Shortly after, the team traded for former starting quarterback Justin Fields. This sparked a lively quarterback debate, with pundits analyzing which player was better suited to lead the current Steelers roster to victory.
Wilson was initially named the starter, but a calf injury has kept him sidelined for the entire season thus far. This situation has given Fields ample opportunity to solidify his position as the starting quarterback in Pittsburgh. While some analysts believe he has succeeded, others speculate that Head Coach Mike Tomlin still prefers Wilson as the starter. Reports indicate that Wilson has been healthy for the past two weeks, but the Steelers are exercising caution due to his age—he’s 35—and the lingering calf issue.
On Wednesday, NFL insider Mike Florio made a surprising statement during an appearance on The PM Team w/Poni & Mueller. He expressed his belief that Wilson will be starting in Week 6 against the Las Vegas Raiders.
"I think we’re back to QB1 time and we’re gonna see Russell Wilson this weekend. I think he’s gonna start."
Florio's statement left the hosts of the show in disbelief. Andrew Fillipponi was taken aback by what Florio had just revealed and quickly asked whether this was merely a hunch or if he had insider information.
Florio suggested it was a bit of both, adding to the intrigue of his claim.
"I think that all along when you consider that Mike Tomlin has resisted making Justin Fields QB1. I’ve been saying for a couple of weeks now, when you have a tough decision that’s looming, the answer tends to reveal itself at the perfect time."
Fields didn't play poorly on Sunday night against the Dallas Cowboys, passing for 131 yards and two touchdowns without throwing any interceptions.
However, throwing for just 131 yards isn't ideal for a starting quarterback. Given that performance and with a healthy Wilson, Florio believes the best time to reinstate Wilson as the starter is this Sunday against the Raiders.
"The Sunday night game wasn’t good enough. It was the type of game that the Steelers last year would win. Completely outplayed, outgained by almost two to one… and they still didn’t win that. I just think it’s a perfect time to bring Wilson back. If he fully participates today, then he’s starting on Sunday."
Wilson was a full participant in practice on Wednesday. Florio noted that if this happened, it would likely mean Wilson would be starting on Sunday.
He expressed strong confidence that Wilson would take the reins against the Raiders. While it's yet to be confirmed, Florio’s reputation as a reliable insider lends weight to his claim, making it something fans will certainly pay attention to.
Steelers Appear To View Russell Wilson As Their Best Chance At QB
If Wilson is reinstated as the starter, it won’t be solely due to Fields' performance or the team's offensive struggles. Through five games, Fields has been respectable and has even surprised Steelers fans with his potential. However, there are still some lingering concerns about his play.
Wilson was always considered the starter, and if he reclaims the job, it shouldn't be seen as a slight against Fields. Fields has shown enough potential to excite Steeler Nation about a future with the team.
However, with the Steelers' star-studded defense not getting any younger, if Wilson is healthy, he is viewed as their best chance to win now. Steelers fans will be watching closely to see how the week unfolds at the quarterback position.
