of Pittsburgh Steelers The Steelers may turn to quarterback Justin Fields sooner than initially thought after the final injury report for Week 1 was released on Friday. Russell Wilson appeared ready to make his first start, but the Steelers' starting quarterback aggravated a calf injury on Thursday.
Russell Wilson's injury status
Wilson enters the weekend questioned as to whether he will be able to play in the Week 1 game. Atlanta FalconsIt appears to be the same calf injury Wilson suffered early in training camp. He was limited on Friday and the injury later in the week has him in serious doubt for Sunday. At this point, it's really unclear whether Wilson will be able to play against the Falcons.
How Russell Wilson's injury impacts fantasy football
Not many fantasy football players have Wilson on their rosters outside of deeper leagues or superflex formats, but he had a chance against the Falcons, and Wilson could have been a good play for owners streaming at quarterback against a defense that is expected to struggle.
That being said, Justin Fields could provide a boost to the Steelers' offense. Fields is a running-heavy quarterback in the run-heavy offense that offensive coordinator Arthur Smith is calling for. Fields has a chance to rush for over 1,000 yards in 2022 and rushed for 657 yards in 13 starts last season. The Falcons defense allowed the second-most rushing touchdowns to quarterbacks last year.
Fields starting wouldn't have much of an impact on a wide receiver like George Pickens. Wilson isn't that far behind Fields from a passing standpoint at this point in his career. Fields being a threat in the running game could take away touchdown opportunities for Najee Harris and Jalen Warren.
Not many will be banking on the Steelers offense in fantasy football in 2024, but it will certainly be worth keeping an eye on whether Wilson plays. Depending on the quarterback situation in a particular league, Fields could be worth playing and at least making the roster if he performs well and seizes the starting role.
