The NFL world is a whirlwind right now! The preseason has already started, and there’s so much going on—Hall of Fame inductions, training camps, suspensions, controversies, and injuries. It’s like a real-life multiverse of madness! While injuries are common in the sports world, one athlete’s injuries can open doors for others! One such incident happened this preseason when Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson injured his calf during training camp. Although the player’s injury has kept him sidelined, it has created valuable opportunities for other players, especially Justin Fields.

Fields has caught some attention with his powerful arm and up-to-the-mark accuracy. He stepped up to first-string duties in Wilson’s absence, building strong connections with the receiving corps and making some impressive plays, enhancing team cohesion and performance on the field. Not only Justin, but backups such as Kyle Allen have benefited from increased playing time because of Wilson’s injury. According to Steelers HC Mike Tomlin, Allen performed well during drills, completing successful passes and scoring touchdowns. His performance has solidified the depth of the quarterback position and ensured the team is well-prepared regardless of Wilson’s status.

When reporters asked Tomlin, “You always say, ‘One man’s misfortune is another man’s opportunity.’ So, did this also give you and your team a chance to learn about a new player faster, besides just creating an opportunity for Justin Fields?” The head coach highlighted how Wilson’s injury might have sidelined the player, but it also helped the team understand what Justin and Kyle can bring to the table.

Since the QBs had a chance to show their skills, the staff now knows how to make the most of them. Tomlin said, “No question, and not only knowledge of Justin but also knowledge of Kyle Allen as well. And so sometimes one man’s misfortune means opportunity for others, plural. Justin obviously had an opportunity to get more reps and for us to get to know him. And I can say the same thing about Kyle Allen.”

Not only did the players get a chance to showcase their game, but it also helped the coach evaluate the exposure Fields and Allen received. Because of Russell Wilson’s absence, he is more familiar with Fields and Allen’s unique talents and capabilities. When reporters asked Tomlin, “What did you learn?” The coach replied, “I think exposure is everything. I’m more familiar with their skill sets, their talents, and the things that they do well and naturally. Exposure is good, and so it’s been an increased exposure, an accelerated understanding, the knowledge of who they are as players.”

But how do Fields and Allen compare to Russell Wilson? Well, there is no doubt that Justin and Kyle are emerging talents. Fields has already proven his potential as a quarterback, especially through his mobility and playmaking abilities. He has impressive rushing statistics. The player has achieved 1,143 yards in 2022, making the record for the second-most rushing yards in a single season by a QB. And that’s not enough! His capacity to scramble makes him a dual threat, comparing him to other elite mobile quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson.

However, despite having great arm talent, Justin has struggled with passing accuracy throughout his career. The player’s passing stats include 2,562 yards, 16 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions in the 2023 NFL season. Completing only 60.3% of his passes, the QB still has a long way to go.

On the other hand, Kyle Allen has completed 62.6% of his passes throughout his career. The player’s passer rating is 82.2, with a total of 4,734 yards, 26 touchdowns, and 21 interceptions. Again, these figures show that Allen is a moderate QB at present. Plus, his track record as a starter has been a bit up and down. This indicates that the Steelers might face some trouble if Russell Wilson doesn’t make a comeback! 

Is Russell Wilson ready to return to the NFL in 2024 after his injury?

Russell Wilson is currently making significant progress in his recovery and has been involved in practice and team drills. On August 8th, Mr. Unlimited expressed that he was feeling “great” and eager to return to the field. He mentioned, “I’m feeling great,” to Teresa Varley of Steelers.com. Despite missing the preseason opener against the Houston Texans, Wilson has all eyes on playing future preseason games against the Buffalo Bills and the Detroit Lions.

Mike Tomlin has highlighted that the staff is closely monitoring Russell’s recovery so that they can gradually increase his workload. The coaching staff is being cautious with the QB to prevent any minor issues that may lead to serious injuries. By allowing Wilson to take a step back, Tomlin has ensured that Wilson focuses on his health in the long run to be completely prepared and avoid the risk of re-injury.

Wilson’s injury has added a layer of competition within the quarterback room. As players like Fields showcase their skills during practice and upcoming preseason games, it increases the pressure on Wilson once he returns. The dynamic has turned the quarterback battle into a more competitive situation, with the performance in games carrying significant weight in the final decision for the starting position.