Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson deals with calf tightness ahead of Week 1 trip to Atlanta

PITTSBURGH – Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson is struggling again with a calf strain, leaving his participation in Sunday’s opener against Atlanta in doubt.

Coach Mike Tomlin said Wilson was limited in practice Thursday. The 35-year-old spent much of training camp dealing with a calf injury. Tomlin said the sprain Wilson felt Thursday was in the same calf.

The Steelers selected Wilson as their starting quarterback over Justin Fields last week, with the nine-time Pro Bowl selection trying to rebuild his career after being waived by Denver in March.

Tomlin said he is not concerned the injury could be a long-term issue for Wilson, but it is uncertain whether Wilson will be ready in time for the Falcons game.

The Steelers have been bullish on Fields this summer. Fields’ development is one reason Tomlin waited until after the offseason to announce Wilson as the starter.

First-year offensive coordinator Arthur Smith declined to provide specifics Thursday when asked whether Fields would get a chance to play even if Wilson is available.

Wilson’s unruly calf may have provided the answer to that question.

___

NFL News: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl