Steelers' Mike Tomlin Now Unsure Of Who Pittsburgh Will Start At QB Against The Buffalo Bills

When the Pittsburgh Steelers first signed Russell Wilson in March, quarterback Kenny Pickett was still on the roster. Even then, the plan was for Wilson to start, or have pole position (as Head Coach Mike Tomlin is so fond of saying), and for Pickett to continue to develop behind him. Pickett became disgruntled over being superseded, was traded, and the Steelers then traded for Justin Fields. The plan remained the same, but this time, Fields was to learn behind the nine-time Pro Bowler, who also sports a Super Bowl ring. 

Unfortunately, Wilson suffered what has been called a minor calf injury. That has meant Fields has gotten far more time as the starting quarterback than anyone expected. Fields has shown flashes of some of the issues that concerned the Chicago Bears before the trade, but he has also shown improvement in numerous areas on top of his incredible raw athleticism. 

Tomlin has said all along that Fields will have a legitimate shot to compete for the spot, but regardless, most agree that Wilson will be the Week 1 starter. Fields started the first preseason game of the season against the Houston Texans, but Wilson is expected to be named the starter for the second one against the Buffalo Bills. He is also listed as the starter on the first official Steelers depth chart. However, at the most recent training camp at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, PA., Tomlin indicated to the media that it might not be as clear-cut as assumed, according to a post on X from Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reporter Ray Fittipaldo. 

"Tomlin said he hasn't decided yet if Russell Wilson will start against the Bills," Fittipaldo posted.

In an earlier press conference, Tomlin said that everything players do is an audition. He added that he gives more weight to what he sees in preseason games than what he sees in camp practices. Apparently, Fields has been winning Tomlin over. 

Do The Steelers Need To Be Very Concerned About Wilson's Injury?

Wilson is 35 years old, set to turn 36 during the season, and many are concerned that his injury is a bigger deal than it is being made out to be. Tomlin has downplayed injuries in the past, running back Najee Harris' Lisfranc sprain for one. That leaves a kernel of doubt that Wilson could be more injured than it appears. 

It is no secret that Father Time is undefeated, and while quarterbacks can play into their 40s, they have to stay healthy to do so. Other quarterbacks, like Kirk Cousins and Aaron Rodgers, have dealt with nagging lower body injuries. It is harder for players of Wilson's age to heal fully and quickly enough to return to the game. 

Who do you think will start against the Bills? Click to comment below.

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