The Pittsburgh Steelers‘ new quarterbacks have captured attention all offseason, and their performances at training camp are providing fans with a clearer picture of what to expect. Among the key players is Justin Fields, who has been making a strong impression. The Steelers also signed veteran quarterback Russell Wilson to a one-year deal at the veteran minimum this offseason.

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Steelers’ Russell Wilson throws the football while Justin Fields watches.

Wilson has faced some challenges with his health, having been limited in practice due to a sore calf he sustained while pushing a sled during the conditioning test on the first day of camp. This injury caused him to miss several sessions, but he has since returned to practice and is gradually getting live reps. Despite this setback, Wilson has expressed optimism about his recovery, stating after the Friday Night Lights practice that he is nearing full health.

Steelers fans are eager to see Wilson fully fit and working with the starters. In the meantime, reports suggest that Fields is making a notable impact and generating excitement. Wilson is determined to get back on the field and secure the starting position for Week 1. After Friday night’s practice, Wilson took a moment to address the media, sharing his admiration for the Steeler Nation brand and emphasizing his enthusiasm for contributing to the team’s success.

“It’s a worldwide brand in terms of Steeler Nation. The Pittsburgh Steelers every time I go to Mexico or go international, I have played in London quite a bit — it’s everywhere all around the world, the black and gold. That’s what the Rooney’s have done and the great head coaches, obviously including [Mike] Tomlin.”

Wilson is excited about his new chapter with the Steelers. He began his NFL career with a bang, making nine Pro Bowls and winning a Super Bowl with the Seattle Seahawks. Following his success in Seattle, Wilson was traded to the Denver Broncos and signed a lucrative five-year deal worth $242 million.

The Broncos had high expectations for Wilson, hoping he would lead them back to Super Bowl contention. Unfortunately, his tenure in Denver was disappointing; he won just 11 games over two seasons, and his performance quickly became a subject of scrutiny. Despite this, Wilson is confident that he still has a lot to offer and is eager to prove that he wasn’t the problem in Denver.

The News Tribune

Former Seahawks QB Russell Wilson looks at his Super Bowl trophy.

One aspect of his new role that Wilson particularly cherishes is the involvement of his children in training camp. During an interview, one of his kids playfully interacted with him, and his son, Future, has been actively participating as an equipment manager and ball boy. Wilson was asked if this was the most his children have ever been involved, and he expressed his gratitude for their active presence and support during this exciting time.

“Yeah, I mean this is definitely the most. They have come to practice before, but the way the Steelers do it, they do a great job of allowing the families to be involved… It’s cool just for our kids to be involved and learn from us. Future is waking up on his own, going to breakfast on his own. He’s there early everyday. He’s there late at night. Wanting to do extra work. He wants extra hours. He’s learning how to work and do it the right way from the best organization.”

Wilson has cherished having his kids around more than ever at camp, and he’s deeply grateful to the Steelers for allowing his family to be so involved. This level of access and involvement is something he didn’t experience in Denver or Seattle.

Steelers’ QB Battle Is Starting To Get Hot

As for the quarterback competition, Wilson currently holds the advantage. Many believe he is the frontrunner for the starting position in Week 1. Although Fields has gained some momentum during Wilson’s absence and limited participation, the battle is intensifying.

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Steelers’ quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Justin Fields meet on the field following a professional football matchup at Soldier Field in Chicago, IL.

The Steelers are set to have their strongest quarterback since Ben Roethlisberger. While it may not match the glory of the Roethlisberger era, the improvement from the 2023 season is expected to be significant.