The Pittsburgh Steelers are giving Russell Wilson first-team reps in practice this week, setting the stage for a potential change at quarterback.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are making a significant move at the quarterback position this week as they plan to give Russell Wilson first-team reps. This development comes as the Steelers prepare to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 11, and it could signal that Wilson is in line to start over incumbent starter Justin Fields.
Wilson, a nine-time Pro Bowl selection and Super Bowl champion, joined the Steelers in a blockbuster trade from the Denver Broncos earlier this season. However, he has been sidelined with a nagging hamstring injury since joining the team. Now that he is healthy, the Steelers are eager to see what he can do under center.
Steelers Prepare Russell Wilson for Starting Role
While Wilson's status as the starter is not yet certain, his first-team reps are a clear indication that he is in serious contention for the job. Fields, who has struggled with consistency and decision-making this season, will need to show significant improvement in practice if he wants to retain his starting role.
If Wilson does start against the Buccaneers, it will be his first game action since Week 6. The former Seattle Seahawks star is eager to prove that he can still play at a high level and help the Steelers compete for a playoff berth.
The Steelers have a lot of confidence in Wilson's ability to lead their offense. He is a proven winner with a wealth of experience and a strong arm. However, he will need to adjust quickly to the Steelers' system and build chemistry with his new teammates.
The Buccaneers defense will be a tough test for Wilson if he does start. Tampa Bay has one of the top pass rushes in the NFL and a secondary led by former All-Pro cornerback Carlton Davis. Wilson will need to be sharp with his decision-making and accurate with his throws if he wants to succeed against the Buccaneers.
The Steelers are hoping that Wilson can provide a spark to their offense, which has struggled to score points consistently this season. Pittsburgh is averaging just 20.4 points per game, which ranks 25th in the NFL. Wilson has a history of producing big plays and leading his teams to victories, and the Steelers are hoping he can do the same for them.
Whether or not Wilson starts against the Buccaneers remains to be seen, but his first-team reps are a clear sign that he is a major part of the Steelers' plans. If he can stay healthy and play at a high level, he could be the missing piece that the Steelers need to reach their playoff goals.
