PITTSBURGH — After demonstrating his fitness and getting back into form during last week’s practice, Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson is “in consideration” to start against the New York Jets on Sunday, according to coach Mike Tomlin.
Tomlin plans to decide between Wilson and Justin Fields for the starting role “closer to game time.”
“I became comfortable with his ability to show he is healthy [last week],” said Tomlin regarding Wilson. “Now it’s about getting back into rhythm. He is in consideration for this week, and we’ll see how this develops. Both quarterbacks are scheduled to practice [Wednesday], and we’ll take it day by day, all aimed at giving ourselves the best chance to win.”
Tomlin did not rule out the possibility of utilizing both quarterbacks during Sunday’s game.
“Certainly, that’s a possibility,” he noted. “There was a scenario last week where that could have been the case.”
Wilson, 35, participated fully in practice for the first time since re-injuring himself on Sept. 5 and was active in the recent victory against the Las Vegas Raiders, while Fields made his sixth start of the season.
“He showed he could protect himself and move effectively in the pocket, without being limited in our offensive schemes,” Tomlin commented on Wilson’s practice performance. “These were necessary factors before we could seriously consider him, and they were all demonstrated last week.”
Tomlin, who has consistently maintained Wilson as the starting quarterback on the depth chart during his injury, was not clear about the specific practice plans for this week.
“I’m sure at some point,” Tomlin said regarding whether Wilson would get first-team reps. “But I haven’t determined who gets the first reps yet. Those details remain undecided.”
With Fields as the starter, the Steelers hold a 4-2 record, which includes a victory over the Raiders, where he rushed for two touchdowns. Fields has thrown five passing touchdowns, with just one interception and one fumble, completing a career-best 66.3% of his throws. However, his QBR stands at 54.0, placing him 20th among quarterbacks, and the Steelers rank 28th in passing yards per game and 20th in scoring.
“Justin has performed well, and we’ve had strong moments, but not to be considered great,” Tomlin remarked. “This league is competitive, and we aim to be a top team. We have a talented player who hasn’t had a chance to play, so we are considering all options.
“Sometimes, it doesn’t reflect on what Justin has or hasn’t done. He’s been valuable to us. Last week, for instance, his ability to use his legs strategically and spontaneously was crucial to our success. He rushed for over 50 yards and scored two touchdowns, and we appreciate his play. We’re simply assessing all our options, just as we would at any position.”
Fields ranks fourth among quarterbacks in rushing yards (231) and leads with five rushing touchdowns through six games, the most by a Steelers quarterback in a single season since Kordell Stewart’s five in 2001.
When asked if Wilson possesses the same mobility as Fields, Tomlin was candid.
“No, he does not,” Tomlin said. “Justin’s speed is a significant advantage.”
So how might the offense shift with Wilson in charge?
“It remains to be seen,” Tomlin responded, “and that’s one of the intriguing aspects of this situation.”