NFL Rumors: Justin Fields remains Steelers’ QB1 as Russell Wilson eyes return after Week 5 | News, results, highlights, statistics and rumors

Russell Wilson’s calf injury means Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin has not been forced to name an official starter in the veteran’s quarterback duel with Justin Fields.

But that could change before the Week 5 game against the Dallas Cowboys.

While Wilson will be sidelined for Sunday’s game against the Indianapolis Colts, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that Wilson is “almost fully healthy as of now” and would “certainly” be available for a playoff game would.

However, Rapoport also reported that Fields is expected to be named the starter for the Week 5 game when Wilson might be available.

Tomlin didn’t exactly offer much clarity when discussing the situation on Tuesday.

“Because there’s no need,” he told reporters when asked why he didn’t make Fields the official long-term starter. “I explained to you the variables of the week. Nothing has changed. He’s going to walk through this building tomorrow with that attitude, and there’s really no need for that. Sometimes in this business, man, there are a lot of complex decisions that have to be made.

“I’ve learned to make them when it’s appropriate and not necessary because we’re sitting here right now, if Russ reaches a reasonable state of health and we have to make a decision, I will make it and announce it,” and I will Be really transparent about it, but until then, no matter how many times you ask me, I have no intention of making the decision, which is unnecessary at this point.

Wilson’s impending return will change the situation, but Fields has Pittsburgh at 3-0 and has done exactly what the team wanted at the start of the season.

He rushed for a season-high 245 yards in the Week 3 win over the Los Angeles Chargers and has a total of three touchdowns to one interception this season. The lack of turnovers is particularly important since Pittsburgh’s defense is among the best in the league and should hold the AFC North team in every game.

Fields has proven throughout his career that he can be a dynamic playmaker with his legs.

While he never lived up to the expectations of being a franchise quarterback from a throwing perspective with the Chicago Bears, the Steelers don’t need him to throw the ball 50 times per game given their overall roster.

All he’s done is win in 2024, and it doesn’t look like Tomlin will change that formula even with Wilson available.