What happened to Russell Wilson? Justin Fields takes first-team reps as QB battle heats up

Russell Wilson signed a one-year, $1.21 million deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers this offseason. The franchise also traded for Justin Fields and vastly improved their quarterback room from last season.

Wilson is expected to start for the Steelers in Week 1, however, the quarterback reportedly is dealing with a calf injury. Fields stepped up in his absence and took first-team reps on the first day of the Steelers' training camp.

Senior NFL insider Ian Rapoport reported that:

"#Steelers coach Mike Tomlin told reporters that QB Russell Wilson is dealing with a calf issue that he woke up with and he’s considered day-to-day. Justin Fields took the first-team reps."

Wilson was seen throwing to the wide receivers after the practice, but he avoided any major movement to worsen his calf situation. Since it is a day-to-day injury, expect the veteran quarterback to take first-team reps in the coming days, but until then, Fields has a great opportunity to impress everyone.

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Should Justin Fields start over Russell Wilson in Week 1?

Justin Fields: Chicago Bears v Green Bay Packers - Source: Getty

Russell Wilson is almost a guarantee to start for the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 1, barring an injury, but should he be given a nod ahead of Justin Fields?

Well, the Steelers are taking a cautious approach with the young quarterback, as they very well know that the former Chicago Bears quarterback has a lot of room for growth. It will be better for Fields to start the season behind Wilson, as he will get to learn a lot from the Super Bowl-winning quarterback, and it will also decrease the pressure on him.

If Fields starts for the Steelers and doesn't play well, it will be hard for him to get his job back. However, if he is the backup quarterback, he can later step up if Wilson struggles or gets hurt, and by then, he will be familiar with the Steelers' offense.

Justin Fields is only 25 years old, and the Bears would have been happy to keep him if they didn't have the first overall pick. The Steelers got him in exchange for a sixth-round pick, and there is a high possibility that Mike Tomlin will get the best out of him and Fields will be their quarterback for years to come.

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