Steelers Russell Wilson Increasing Participation In Training Camp

The Pittsburgh Steelers have yet to see one of their newest additions, Russell Wilson, take part much in training camp. Wilson suffered a calf injury right before training camp and has been limited since.

The Steelers have taken an intentionally precautious approach to bringing Wilson up to speed. The quarterback has been mainly an observer throughout training camp up to this point. He has handed the ball off in 11-on-11 drills and threw some during seven-on-seven drills.

Wilson’s absence has led to more opportunities for Justin Fields, who has shined in training camp. Fields has been dominating the first-team snaps in all major drills with Wilson sidelined, leading to many questioning who will be Pittsburgh’s starting quarterback in Week 1.

After multiple weeks, Wilson is taking a significant step forward according to Sports Illustrated’s Jacob Punturi.

“Thankfully for the Steelers and Wilson, he’s increasing his participation in team activities,” Punturi reported. “Wilson joined the team for walk-throughs for the first time, an encouraging sign that he was participating early on. Once team drills began, he and Justin Fields alternated snaps during the seven shots portion of practice. This marked the first time Wilson was involved in the drill. He later participated in some one-on-one drills as well, giving him his first opportunities to connect with his receivers in a more game-like situation.”

“The team is remaining cautious with Wilson. During seven shots, he reportedly handed the ball off several times during his reps. However, he made a nice pass to star receiver George Pickens for his lone pass attempt during the drill. The play resulted in a touchdown for the offense.”

It’s a great sign to see Wilson taking a more active role in training camp. It will be curious how a quarterback battle may heat up as we head into the preseason. Either way, the Steelers are in a better place than this time last season.

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