Who's In, Who's Out for Steelers vs. Texans?

It may not count for much, but game action is officially back on Friday night when the Pittsburgh Steelers play host to the Houston Texans to open their three-game summer circuit.

The Steelers have no shortage of storylines to sort out as the preseason progresses. As the Brandon Aiyuk trade rumors loom amongst the clouds above Acrisure Stadium, Pittsburgh is still in need of an official answer at quarterback. The offensive line isn’t totally settled, neither is the receiving corps; there’s unfinished business on defense, too.

Friday offers the Steelers an opportunity to get a little closer to those answers. Who can fans expect to watch against Houston?

First and foremost, this is quarterback Justin Fields’ opportunity to gain ground on veteran Russell Wilson. As Wilson manages his calf injury that has hindered his training camp, Fields will run with the ones. Wilson is sitting this one out, leaving Fields, Kyle Allen, and John Rhys Plumlee under center.

Veteran guard Isaac Seumalo won’t be seeing playing time either – perhaps helpful given the fluid situation up front – but most of the Steelers’ losses will come on defense.

Pittsburgh’s star edge rushers T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith won’t be playing, neither will linebacker Patrick Queen or safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. Veteran defensive lineman Cameron Heyward will join them on the bench.

Tomlin cited rest, experience, and the opportunities open for younger players when talking about the handful of veterans sitting out of Friday’s game. The day off should give those dealing with minor injuries the extra rest necessary to suit up if necessary in the coming weeks.

Related: Fields' Accuracy Impressing at Steelers Camp, Says Insider

Edge rusher Markus Golden retired on Friday, so he won’t be in attendance, either.

In all, Fields will have most of his starters surrounding him for the few drives he gets to lead, and then fans can focus on young defensive contributors looking to make their mark and improve their standing before the score starts to matter.