Steelers QB Russell Wilson's calf tightness raises concerns ahead of season opener

Why it matters: The status of Russell Wilson's calf injury has become a significant issue for the Pittsburgh Steelers as they prepare for their season opener against the Falcons.

What's new: Coach Mike Tomlin revealed that Wilson is dealing with tightness in his calf, which he injured during training camp. His availability for Sunday's game remains uncertain.

Yes, but: If Wilson is unable to play, rookie Justin Fields would step in as the starting quarterback. While Tomlin expressed confidence in Fields, the team would undoubtedly prefer to have their established starter on the field.

What to watch: All eyes will be on Wilson's recovery leading up to Sunday's game. If he can't play, it will be a crucial test for Fields as he takes on the responsibility of leading the offense.

The bottom line: The Steelers must navigate the possibility of playing without their starting quarterback early in the season. It underscores the importance of depth and preparation at the quarterback position.

• Wilson injured his calf during the team's conditioning test before training camp.
• He gradually returned to practice but missed the first preseason game and played limited snaps in the following two games.
• Coach Tomlin downplayed the long-term impact of Wilson's calf tightness, indicating it is a precautionary measure.
• Wide receiver Van Jefferson acknowledged the capabilities of both Wilson and Fields but emphasized the need for any quarterback on the field to get the job done.

Our thought bubble: The Steelers' success will heavily depend on the health and availability of Russell Wilson throughout the season. They will hope for a swift recovery and a return to action ahead of their season opener.

What's next: The team will continue monitoring Wilson's condition and evaluating his progress. The decision regarding his availability for Sunday's game against the Falcons will likely come closer to game day.

Steelers QB Russell Wilson's calf tightness raises concerns ahead of season opener

Why it matters: The status of Russell Wilson's calf injury has become a significant issue for the Pittsburgh Steelers as they prepare for their season opener against the Falcons.

What's new: Coach Mike Tomlin revealed that Wilson is dealing with tightness in his calf, which he injured during training camp. His availability for Sunday's game remains uncertain.

Yes, but: If Wilson is unable to play, rookie Justin Fields would step in as the starting quarterback. While Tomlin expressed confidence in Fields, the team would undoubtedly prefer to have their established starter on the field.

What to watch: All eyes will be on Wilson's recovery leading up to Sunday's game. If he can't play, it will be a crucial test for Fields as he takes on the responsibility of leading the offense.

The bottom line: The Steelers must navigate the possibility of playing without their starting quarterback early in the season. It underscores the importance of depth and preparation at the quarterback position.

• Wilson injured his calf during the team's conditioning test before training camp.
• He gradually returned to practice but missed the first preseason game and played limited snaps in the following two games.
• Coach Tomlin downplayed the long-term impact of Wilson's calf tightness, indicating it is a precautionary measure.
• Wide receiver Van Jefferson acknowledged the capabilities of both Wilson and Fields but emphasized the need for any quarterback on the field to get the job done.

Our thought bubble: The Steelers' success will heavily depend on the health and availability of Russell Wilson throughout the season. They will hope for a swift recovery and a return to action ahead of their season opener.

What's next: The team will continue monitoring Wilson's condition and evaluating his progress. The decision regarding his availability for Sunday's game against the Falcons will likely come closer to game day.