Could Steelers Bench Wilson vs. Falcons?

The Pittsburgh Steelers are trying to make quarterback Russell Wilson work.

After signing him to a league-minimum deal, the team claimed he had pole positioning throughout camp, gave him the starting job, and voted him captain ahead of his first regular season game with his new team.

Wilson’s body isn’t cooperating.

After sitting out much of the summer with a calf injury, Wilson returned to practice and preseason play and reclaimed the starting job.

On Thursday, his calf flared up again, putting his status for Sunday in doubt. He’ll be re-evaluated on Friday.

But health might not be the only reason Justin Fields sees the field in Week 1 against the Atlanta Falcons – at least according to ESPN’s Mike Greenberg.

On Wednesday’s episode of “Get Up,” notably before Wilson’s injury news, he spoke about the possibility head coach Mike Tomlin considers giving the keys to Fields.

"I'm not suggesting he'll do it, but when will he start thinking about it. If I put the over at halftime of Week 1," Greenberg said . "I'm telling you that thought is going to go through his head in the second quarter in Atlanta when they go three-and-out for the third consecutive time."

Regardless of how Wilson plays – or if he plays – there’s a good chance of seeing Fields take some snaps on Sunday. His physical tools are still enviable, and his athleticism adds another dimension to Pittsburgh’s offense. With offensive coordinator Arthur Smith at the controls, giving Fields the opportunity to make plays with his legs feels like a given.

Related: Steelers QB Russell Wilson Limited in Practice

If Wilson can go, it is unlikely he gets benched in a hurry, although his job security is a cocktail of urgency, scheduling, and opportunity cost. Pittsburgh has an incredibly tough second half, meaning the quarterback situation must be figured out quickly. Starting off slow with the Kansas City Chiefs, Philadelphia Eagles, and six divisional games on the other side of the bye week is a recipe for disaster. And every rep taken by Wilson is one not taken by a more talented quarterback.

Wilson has the job for a reason. He offers a higher floor and a much larger track record. But his body and his play could force the Steelers’ hand before Tomlin would prefer to make any changes.